Speaker
Description
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is among the most aggressive human cancers, where the current combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy yields only limited extension of patient survival. The NuCapCure project introduces a radically new concept for treating deep-seated tumours by synergistically combining protons, neutrons, and the intracellular biochemistry. The core idea is the production of boron cluster-bearing-photosensitisers (PSs) within the cells. This will lead to selective enrichment of tumour tissue with boron, while sparing healthy tissues.
Cells loaded in this way can subsequently be targeted through two complementary modalities: (i) proton-based treatment, combining classical proton radiotherapy, proton induced photosensitizer activation (proton dynamic therapy), and boron proton capture therapy (BPCT); and (ii) neutron-based treatment, integrating neutron induced excitation of PpIX and boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT). Both approaches rely on short range alpha particles generated directly inside the tumour, enabling high spatial precision and the elimination of infiltrative cells surrounding the primary lesion.
Research Centre Řež (CVR) plays an important role in the project in neutron related experimental work. LVR-15 is one of the few European research reactors with longstanding experience in both experimental and clinical BNCT, making it an ideal platform for advancing the neutron component of NuCapCure. CVR is responsible for developing irradiation configurations, performing dosimetric simulations, preparing biological setups, and—critically—irradiating cell cultures and animal models with thermal neutrons, which is essential for assessing the efficacy of boron modified compounds. In addition, CVR works closely with partner institutions, Charles University of Prague, National Centre for Scientific Research Demokritos in Athens and the University of Oslo, to optimize irradiation geometry, neutron transport, and the validation of biological responses. This collaboration enables evaluation of both neutron-induced PS activation and the specific contribution of boron neutron capture effects.
NuCapCure thus represents a unique fusion of synthetic chemistry, radiobiology, proton physics, and neutron technologies. Our work aims to develop a multimodal therapy with the potential to achieve truly curative outcomes for GBM and other deep-seated tumours, while simultaneously revitalising European infrastructure for advanced neutron based therapeutic approaches.