In a significant advancement for cancer treatment in China, Neuboron Medical Group has successfully developed and implemented the country's first accelerator-based Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) system, marking a major milestone in oncology innovation. The company's demonstration center at Xiamen Humanity Hospital began treating patients in October 2022, establishing China as the second nation worldwide to offer AB-BNCT treatments.
Advanced Technology Specifications and Capabilities
The NeuPEX Block-I system, developed by Neuboron, represents a significant technological achievement in BNCT delivery. The system boasts industry-leading specifications, including an exceptional treatment depth of 11 centimeters and a maximum irradiation aperture of 40 centimeters with configurable collimators. These specifications surpass current market standards, potentially enabling treatment of a broader range of tumor types and locations.
Complementing the hardware innovation, Neuboron has developed proprietary boron drugs (18F-BPA and BPA) that demonstrate notable advantages over existing Japanese alternatives. The company reports their formulation offers reduced toxicity, enhanced transportability, and simplified storage requirements, characteristics that could facilitate wider clinical adoption.
Clinical Implementation and Research Impact
The installation at Xiamen Humanity Hospital has demonstrated remarkable operational stability since its commissioning. Over three years of continuous operation, the facility has conducted extensive preclinical research, including cellular studies and animal trials involving mice, rats, and beagles. The system has successfully delivered more than 50 irradiation treatments and supported over 40 human clinical trials.
International Collaboration and Research Network
Neuboron's BNCT program has attracted significant international attention, fostering collaborations with prestigious research institutions worldwide. Partners include Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, China Pharmaceutical University, Italy's Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, and the University of Pavia. These partnerships have facilitated comprehensive research in BNCT radiobiology and novel drug development.
Clinical and Technical Excellence
The successful implementation and operation of the NeuPEX system underscore the technical expertise of both Neuboron Medical Group and Xiamen Humanity Hospital's clinical teams. The sustained performance and growing body of research validate the system's reliability and potential impact on cancer treatment options in China and globally.
