Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is a therapeutic treatment for malignant tumors. It is biochemically-targeted radiotherapy that utilizes the nuclear fission reactions that happen when a boron-10 (10B) is irradiated with thermal neutrons. The neutron-capture reaction generates a high-energy 4He nucleus (a particle) and 7Li nucleus, which could then destroy designated cells.
Comparing to the conventional radiation therapies, BNCT shows the comparable ability to destroy the tumor cells while leaving normal tissues undamaged. Thus, it is regarded as one of the most promising radiotherapies.