Breakthrough in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Treatment: University of Tokyo Researchers Pave Way for Novel Boron Neutron Capture Therapy
Tokyo, Japan – Researchers at the University of Tokyo have announced a significant advancement in the fight against malignant pleural mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer primarily affecting the lining of the lungs. Their pioneering work, published on July 29, 2025, details the successful development of a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) formulation derived from common liquid glue, which shows immense promise for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) in treating this challenging disease.
Malignant pleural mesothelioma is notoriously difficult to treat, often diagnosed at late stages with limited effective therapeutic options. BNCT, a targeted radiation therapy, offers a unique approach by selectively destroying cancer cells. This technique relies on delivering a boron-containing compound that accumulates in tumor cells. When exposed to a thermal neutron beam, the boron atoms undergo a nuclear reaction, releasing highly energetic alpha particles and lithium nuclei that damage and kill the cancer cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.
The key innovation presented by the University of Tokyo team lies in their novel use of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), a common and safe polymer found in many household products, including liquid adhesives. Through meticulous research and development, the team has successfully formulated PVA into a stable and effective agent for BNCT. This breakthrough represents a critical step towards the practical application of BNCT for malignant pleural mesothelioma.
The research highlights the development of a PVA preparation that exhibits favorable characteristics for BNCT delivery and efficacy. While specific details regarding the exact formulation and experimental results are outlined in the published announcement, the core achievement is the successful translation of a readily available material into a sophisticated medical therapy.
This development is particularly encouraging due to the potential for wider accessibility and cost-effectiveness. By leveraging a widely produced and well-understood substance like PVA, the researchers may be opening doors to more affordable and readily available treatment options for patients worldwide.
The University of Tokyo’s announcement signifies a monumental stride forward in the quest for more effective cancer therapies. This research not only offers renewed hope for patients battling malignant pleural mesothelioma but also underscores the potential for innovative applications of everyday materials in cutting-edge medical treatments. Further clinical trials and regulatory approvals will be necessary, but this development marks a truly画期的一歩 (groundbreaking step) in the field of oncology.
「液体のり」の成分を利用した悪性胸膜中皮腫治療 ──ホウ素中性子捕捉療法用ポリビニルアルコール製剤の実用化に向けた画期的一歩──
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東京大学 published ‘「液体のり」の成分を利用した悪性胸膜中皮腫治療 ──ホウ素中性子捕捉療法用ポリビニルアルコール製剤の実用化に向けた画期的一歩──’ at 2025-07-29 20:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.