In a major milestone for cancer treatment in Europe, Neutron Therapeutics LLC and Helsinki University Hospital (HUS) have successfully treated the first head and neck cancer patients using accelerator-based Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT). This marks the first clinical use of such technology in the Western hemisphere and the culmination of years of international collaboration.
A Promising Alternative to Traditional Cancer Treatments
BNCT is a unique, tumour-targeted form of radiation therapy that uses epithermal neutrons to activate a boron-based compound, which accumulates selectively in cancer cells. Once activated, the compound triggers a nuclear reaction that destroys tumour cells from within—without damaging surrounding healthy tissue.
Unlike traditional radiation or chemotherapy, BNCT requires only one or two treatment sessions and offers the potential to deliver highly precise, effective radiation at the cellular level. This can significantly reduce side effects and improve patient quality of life.
First Patients Enrolled in Ten-Patient Clinical Study
The first participants in a ten-patient clinical trial are the patients treated to assess the safety of BNCT for locally recurrent head and neck cancers. Neutron Therapeutics’ nuBeam™ Suite—a compact, accelerator-based neutron system paired with a locally developed boron-carrying drug—delivered the therapy. HUS’s Comprehensive Cancer Center, a long-time hub for BNCT innovation and clinical research, houses the nuBeam Suite, the first of its kind in Europe.
Comprehensive Tools Built for Next-Generation Cancer Therapy
Neutron Therapeutics’ nuBeam Suite offers a fully integrated BNCT platform, including:
- A high-throughput neutron source
- Advanced patient positioning and imaging systems
- Treatment planning and control software
The suite is currently undergoing the final stages of clinical testing. The company plans to apply for CE mark certification once the evaluations are complete. Neutron Therapeutics is also in active discussions with academic medical centers in the U.S. to bring BNCT to American patients.
Reintroducing BNCT to the West
“This is a proud moment for Neutron Therapeutics,” said Bill Buckley, co-founder of the company. “For years, patients in the West had no access to BNCT due to the shutdown of reactor-based facilities. With our nuBeam system, we’re offering a modern, clinically viable alternative that has the potential to help those who don’t respond to conventional therapies.”
A New Chapter in Finnish Cancer Care
Johanna Mattson, Director of the Comprehensive Cancer Center at HUS, highlighted the significance of the milestone. “This trial addresses a critical unmet need in cancer treatment. Our hospital’s long-standing experience with BNCT positions us well to lead this study and future trials aimed at extending this therapy to more patients with solid tumours.”
Helsinki University Hospital has treated more than 200 patients with BNCT since 1992, using a research reactor as the neutron source. With the transition to accelerator-based systems, the hospital is now pioneering a new, scalable model for BNCT deployment in clinical practice.
Paving the Way for Broader Access
Neutron Therapeutics and HUS have successfully started clinical treatments. They are now setting the stage for broader adoption of BNCT across Europe and beyond. Pharmabiz.com reports that the collaboration represents a technological breakthrough. It also brings renewed hope for patients facing difficult-to-treat cancers.