Neutron Medical, a subsidiary of Hermes-Epitek, has received approval for its AB-BNCT medical device. General Manager Hsiao-Lien Shen announced that clinical trials would begin this year, targeting recurrent head and neck cancers with a boron-containing drug (BPA) developed in collaboration with leading domestic CDMO pharmaceutical companies, aiming for market approval by 2026. Additionally, research trials will commence for brain tumors, brain cancer, breast cancer, and lung cancer, allowing for emergency medical use upon completion.
Since its establishment, Neutron Medical has focused on the continuous development of AB-BNCT technology. The approval of the AB-BNCT device marks a significant milestone in Taiwan's cancer treatment field, demonstrating Taiwan's capability to independently develop cancer treatment systems without relying solely on foreign manufacturers. Moving forward, Neutron Medical will align with Taiwan's precision medicine policies, collaborating closely with major medical centers to expand the clinical application of BNCT, offering new treatment options for cancer patients.
This cross-disciplinary comprehensive technology breakthrough by Neutron Medical not only showcases Taiwan's superior technical capabilities but also achieves the highest neutron efficiency globally with their patented technology. Compared to similar international systems, Neutron Medical's device boasts superior low-activation characteristics, effectively reducing unnecessary radiation exposure. Neutron Medical's robust technical strength positions the company to expand from Taiwan to the global market.
Hsiao-Lien Shen stated that this year, clinical trials would begin for the boron-containing drug (BPA) targeting recurrent head and neck cancers, with collaborations involving medical centers in northern, central, and southern Taiwan. The goal is to complete trials and obtain drug approval by 2026. Concurrently, research trials will be conducted for brain tumors, brain cancer, breast cancer, and lung cancer. Neutron Medical's Clinical Medical Center has already begun corresponding planning, laying a scientific foundation for future indication expansions.
Cancer remains the leading cause of death among Taiwanese people. Precision diagnosis and personalized treatment are top priorities in current medical practice. Neutron Medical aligns with the government's policy to develop a precision medicine industry by advancing screening techniques (F18-BPA) combined with molecular imaging technology, enhancing diagnostic accuracy. This technology (F18-BPA) not only provides scientific indicators for predicting treatment efficacy but also offers a basis for future commercial insurance and healthcare reimbursements.
BNCT technology has secured a foothold in Taiwan's cancer treatment landscape, and the synergy between policy, clinical application, and technology support will ensure Taiwan remains a global leader in BNCT. In terms of policy, Neutron Medical has closely communicated with government departments, gaining substantial support and recognition. Clinically, Neutron Medical's partnership with China Medical University has reached a new chapter with the completion of their treatment facility. Technologically, significant research progress is being made in developing more convenient positioning tools and miniaturizing the system, all proceeding in an orderly manner.
Neutron Medical was established in 2017 with investment from Hermes-Epitek, which currently holds over 80% ownership. The technology was transferred from the "Accelerator-Based Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (AB-BNCT) Cancer Treatment Equipment" developed jointly by National Tsing Hua University and the Industrial Technology Research Institute. In 2019, Neutron Medical established a partnership with China Medical University to install the AB-BNCT system within the university. Construction was completed in mid-2023, and neutron beam emission began at the end of 2023.
This year, Neutron Medical has initiated an IPO plan, becoming Hermes-Epitek's first biotech company to do so. The goal is to be listed on the Emerging Stock Board by December this year. Additionally, there will be a capital increase in the second half of the year, raising the capital to 1.4-1.5 billion NTD, with plans to apply for a public listing next year as a technology enterprise.
Resource (mandarin): 漢民旗下禾榮科技取得醫材許可，首台國產癌症標靶放射治療設備問世
