Detecting esophageal cancer early using a new fluorescent probe and endoscope
Official title: SBIR Topic 463: Clinical evaluation for early detection of esophageal cancer with a novel fluorescence endoscope and pegulicianine, a novel fluorescent probe
Funded at Lumicell, INC. · NIH-11191754 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new imaging tool that helps doctors spot early signs of esophageal cancer more easily during exams, which could mean fewer unnecessary biopsies and better care for people with Barrett's esophagus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lumicell, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newton, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 16, 2024 |
| Project end | September 15, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $399,036 |
| NIH project number | 75N91024C00081-0-9999-1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11191754 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus who are at risk for developing esophageal adenocarcinoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have Barrett's esophagus or those with advanced esophageal cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the early detection of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) by developing a novel fluorescence-based endoscopic imaging platform. The platform utilizes a new imaging agent called pegulicianine, which highlights cancer-related molecular changes in real-time during endoscopic procedures. By providing more accurate imaging, this approach aims to reduce the need for random biopsies and enhance the detection of dysplasia in patients with Barrett's esophagus. Ultimately, this could lead to earlier interventions and better patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of esophageal cancer and improve survival rates through earlier detection.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using fluorescence imaging for cancer detection, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Lumicell, INC.
Newton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ferrer, Jorge — Lumicell, INC.
- Study coordinator: Ferrer, Jorge
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.