The use of boron-containing amines for the amino alkylation of amides has been investigated in our laboratories with the aim of preparing compounds which could be used in neutron capture therapy. The purpose of this procedure is to achieve selective irradiation of a neoplactic growth by inducing radioactivity throughout that tissue. Although the results obtained in destroying tumors have not always been encouraging, they have been such - especially in cases not amenable to treatment by surgery or chemotherapy - that further research is warranted in order to develop drugs that can be used effectively in neutron capture therapy (Farr, Robertson & Stickley, 1954). This method of cancer treatment is still in the experimental stages of development, but it will, no doubt, gain the active interest of more clinical workers in the near future.

Graduation date: 1995