EELS Spectrum‐Imaging for Boron Detection in Biological Cryofixed Tissues

Abstract

Abstract Boron imaging at the subcellular level in tissues is of prime importance to understand boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) effects and to suggest ways to improve the efficiency of the treatments. In this paper, we present boron imaging in cryofixed biological tissues by electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), using the spectrum‐imaging acquisition mode. We performed boron imaging in tissues of mice who received boron compounds. We analysed cryosections of tumours, livers, and kidneys of infused mice. Our results point out the relevance of EELS for boron imaging and, particularly, in order to detect small accumulation areas. The data also point out the limitations of the technique and its complementarity with other imaging techniques. We discuss and illustrate the possibility for misinterpretation of EELS or electron spectroscopic imaging (ESI) data. We particularly focus on the problem of phosphorus for boron imaging. This manuscript is dedicated to Dr. K. Zierold who died in 2004. Keywords: BoronSpectrum‐imagingCryomethodsDigital filteringElectron energy‐loss spectroscopy (EELS)Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) Acknowledgment This work has been financially supported by the European Commission within the 5th framework programme (Contract no. QLK3‐CT‐1999‐01067). Notes This manuscript is dedicated to Dr. K. Zierold who died in 2004.