Title: A multiscale dosimetric approach to BNCT for Glioblastoma Multiforme: a theoretical and experimental journey from cell microdosimetry to patient treatment
With great joy, we would like to invite you to the 9th BNCT International Webinar. The speaker will be Barbara Marcaccio, fresh PhD at the University of Pavia and Universidad Nacional de San Martín.
The webinar will be held virtually (zoom platform), on Thursday 23rd April at 11 UTC. It will be a 45-minute webinar: 30 minutes exposition + 15 minutes discussion. We will have to stick to the time because participants will be from all over the world!
LINK TO THE ZOOM AND INFORMATION:
Topic: ISNCT Webinar – Silva Bortolussi
Time: 23 apr 2026 11 UTC
Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/6935007802?pwd=e5k6R7yAbOYnstpTR3dlQ5oCbMzawW.1&omn=83674468178
Meeting ID: 693 500 7802
Code: 920711
Name: Barbara Marcaccio
Title: A multiscale dosimetric approach to BNCT for Glioblastoma Multiforme: a theoretical and experimental journey from cell microdosimetry to patient treatment
Abstract:
Glioblastoma multiforme, GBM, is a highly infiltrative brain tumor that remains largely resistant to conventional therapies. Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) has emerged as a promising treatment option due to its potential for highly selective tumor cell irradiation.
This thesis, developed within the framework of a collaboration between Italy and Argentina, focuses on improving BNCT dosimetry, which is essential to ensure safe and effective treatments.
In the first part of the work, a Photon Isoeffective Dose model specific to GBM was developed using radiobiological data obtained from clonogenic experiments on U-87 cells irradiated with photons, neutrons, and BNCT. The model enables the conversion of BNCT dose into an equivalent photon dose, facilitating comparisons with conventional radiotherapy and improving the prediction of clinical outcomes.
The second part of the thesis investigates the subcellular microdistribution of boron-10, measured for the first time in GBM cells using neutron autoradiography, revealing a preferential accumulation in the cell nucleus. These experimental data were used to develop a microdosimetric model that accounts for both the intracellular boron distribution and the stochastic nature of energy deposition.
The results show that neglecting this microdistribution may lead to a significant overestimation of the biologically effective dose. Finally, a preliminary 1-year progression-free survival (1y-PFS) model was developed to evaluate the clinical relevance of the proposed dosimetric approaches.
Overall, this thesis provides new radiobiological parameters and modeling tools that improve the accuracy and personalization of BNCT treatment planning, contributing to the development of future clinical protocols
Biography:
Barbara Marcaccio is a physicist specializing in medical physics and radiation dosimetry. She recently completed a double PhD between the University of Pavia (Italy) and the Universidad Nacional de San Martín (Argentina), focusing on dosimetry and radiobiological modeling for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) in glioblastoma. Her research combines experimental radiobiology, microdosimetry, and treatment modeling to improve the accuracy and clinical relevance of BNCT treatment planning.