Advances in boron compounds: Author's perspectives on their role in biotechnology from antimicrobial agents to cancer therapy

Boron compounds, both organic and inorganic, have emerged as versatile and promising materials with wide-ranging applications in medicinal chemistry, catalysis, and materials science. Organic boron compounds, including heterocyclic aminoboron derivatives and boronic acids, have shown significant potential as antimicrobial and anticancer agents, with research highlighting their effectiveness in treating infections and inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. The ongoing research, including the author's own studies, demonstrates significant promise regarding inorganic boron compounds, which possess a considerable potential that cannot be overlooked. Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) has garnered attention for its targeted approach in cancer therapy, facilitated by the development of innovative boron-based drug delivery systems. Inorganic boron compounds, on the other hand, have contributed to advancements in catalytic processes, material stability, and electronic properties, offering opportunities for applications in organic electronics, flame-retardant materials, and drug development. The unique chemical reactivity of boron compounds, including their ability to inhibit enzymes such as β-lactamases and histone deacetylases, positions them as valuable tools in combating antibiotic resistance and cancer. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the properties, applications, and therapeutic potential of boron compounds, emphasizing their role in drug delivery, enzyme inhibition, and antimicrobial development. Ongoing research into the structural modification and functionalization of boron-based compounds continues to expand their scope, positioning them as key candidates for the development of novel therapeutic agents in biotechnology and medicine.