Can Brain Tumors Benefit From Particle Accelerators?

By Robert Sutter


When going into detail about particle accelerator technology, it's clear that there are a number of uses to take into account. Perhaps the biggest example has to be in particle physics, though this is the one that seems to be the most typical. However, is it possible that this type of technology can come into play for the sake of helping brain tumors as well? From what I have seen, it seems like the experiments that are done will prove this to be the case.

According to an article published by Symmetry Magazine, brain tumors can be removed but oftentimes it cannot be done without damaging the surrounding tissue. What this can lead to is further damage down the road, which is something that may not have been worth going about if the results don't stand strong in the long term. Fortunately, a group of specialists from Fermilab seem to be focused on utilizing a unique method referred to as Boron Neuron Capture Therapy. Organizations like Voices against Brain Cancer should take note.

The article spoke about a procedure by the name of Boron Neuron Capture Therapy and how it can be put to use alongside particle technology. A patient will be given a tumor-seeking substance that will work its way into the bloodstream. Keep in mind that this substance entails non-radioactive boron, which will be able to enter the membrane through the blood-brain barrier. It will then be able to target both the tumor and the soft tissue around it, which can help in terms of keeping damage to a minimum.

Once this is done, the patient is then given exposure to a beam of neurons, which is a strong pointto say the least. Keep in mind that boron itself is great when it comes to claiming neurons, being able to catch them not unlike a giant net in the face of one soccer ball after another. Once a neuron is secured, a boron atom will be split and this will allow energy to be carried out. The impact that this can have is about the same as an effective dose of radiation.

This method entails science, which is something that goes without saying. However, the fact that one type of science is able to meet another is especially interesting; the fact that one of the focuses is on brain tumors is one that should not be overlooked. This method has been looked into for decades and it has been conducted around the world, too. With this in mind, it is apparent that the potential is present; it's just that this level has to be realized in the long term.




About the Author:



No comments: