Developing a targeted dye for better surgery in head and neck cancer

A peptide targeted fluorescence probe for precision surgery of head and neck cancer

NIH-funded research Molecular Theranostics, LLC · NIH-10922472

This study is testing a special dye that helps surgeons see tumors more clearly during surgery for head and neck cancer, making it easier to remove all the cancerous tissue and improve treatment outcomes.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 1 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMolecular Theranostics, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Beachwood, United States)
Project IDNIH-10922472 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to create a specialized fluorescence dye that can be used during surgery to improve the precision of tumor removal in patients with head and neck cancer. By using this dye, surgeons can better visualize tumors and their margins in real-time, potentially reducing the chances of leaving behind cancerous tissue. The approach focuses on enhancing the detection of small tumors and accurately defining tumor boundaries, which is crucial for effective surgical treatment. This method seeks to address the limitations of current imaging techniques that often require lengthy preparation times and may not be specific to tumors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with head and neck cancer who are scheduled for surgical intervention.

Not a fit: Patients with head and neck cancer who are not undergoing surgery or those with advanced metastatic disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective surgeries for head and neck cancer, reducing the risk of cancer recurrence and improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While some targeted fluorescence probes are in development for head and neck cancer, this specific approach is novel and aims to overcome existing limitations.

Where this research is happening

Beachwood, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancer DetectionCancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.