Monte Carlo Simulation Study on the Optimal Neutron Energy and Boron Concentration for SARS-COV-2 Inactivation through BNCT

Abstract

Researchers have been exploring various radiation therapies to treat COVID-19 patients ranging from mild to severe. One technique that has shown promise is Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT). This therapy involves administering of 10B isotope to the targeted area, which is then exposed to chargeless neutrons. These neutrons can be absorbed by areas with high concentrations of 10B. When the neutrons react with the 10B (10B + n?7Li + 4He reaction), it results in the transfer of highly ionizing energy, causing confined lethality and destroying the targeted area. In this study, we used the Particle and Heavy Ion Transport Code System simulation to evaluate whether Boron Neutron Capture Therapy could be effective as an anti-viral therapy. The study involves creating a model of the SAR-COV-2 target phantom's geometry and defining its chemical composition to collect data. It was found out that when tested at different neutron energies and concentrations (30 ppm, 50 ppm, and 100 ppm), a sufficient amount of dose to cause biological damage to the Sars-CoV-2 enveloped protein could be achieved with 30 ppm boron concentration and a neutron energy of 1.0x10-10 MeV.