10B-rich boron cluster targeting folate receptors for boron neutron capture therapy in prostate cancer

Boron drugs are the main limiting factors for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) in tumor treatment. High boron content and strong targeting are future directions for 10B delivery agent development. Nanomedicines that increase 10B content and enhance targeting have the potential to become ideal 10B drugs. Here, we demonstrate the potential of folate-modified boron cluster nanoparticles (10BDF) as 10B delivery agents for BNCT in prostate cancer treatment. 10BDF nanoparticles can be specifically taken up by prostate cancer cells, and 10BDF-mediated BNCT effectively kills prostate cancer cells. We also explored through tumor tissue transcriptomics that BNCT may induce apoptosis in tumor cells through mechanisms other than direct DNA damage. This study designs a BNCT treatment strategy for prostate cancer and explores potential mechanisms underlying BNCT therapy for tumors.