The purpose of this MQP was to determine whether WPI's nuclear reactor is suitable for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy. The research included neutron irradiation of cells from the L6 adherent cell line to ascertain if the neutrons required for this binary therapy were available at WPI. Cells were irradiated with and without infusion of boronophenylalanine (BPA). Using a neutron filter, composed of a gamma shield and moderating polyethylene, a neutron flux sufficient for BNCT was obtained. It was concluded that this neutron flux could be utilized in conjunction with boron compounds to perform to BNCT studies using the WPI nuclear reactor.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• McCaffrey, Eric John
• Rainey, John Edward
• Barber, Danielle Marie

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 01D276M

Advisor

• Crusberg, Theodore C.
• Sisson, Richard D.

Year

• 2001

Date created

• 2001-01-01

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biology & Biotechnology
• Mechanical Engineering

Rights statement

• In Copyright