Fluorescence-guided breast tumor removal using a topical molecular dye
Fluorescence-guided resection of breast tumors using a topically-applied molecular probe
A safe glowing dye applied during lumpectomy to help surgeons see and remove breast cancer while preserving healthy tissue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11003786 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If I join, surgeons will apply a topical fluorescent probe to the breast or removed tissue during breast-conserving surgery so cancerous areas light up under a special camera. The glowing signal will guide the surgeon to better identify tumor edges and areas that might otherwise be missed. Doctors will compare surgical margins and whether patients need follow-up operations, and they will monitor for any side effects from the probe. The research aims to lower the chance of returning for more surgery and improve cosmetic outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people scheduled for breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) for early-stage breast cancer or ductal carcinoma in situ.
Not a fit: People who need a mastectomy, have widely multifocal disease, or cannot receive the probe due to allergy or other medical restrictions may not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This could reduce the need for repeat surgeries and help preserve breast appearance by giving surgeons a clearer view of tumor margins during lumpectomy.
How similar studies have performed: Fluorescence-guided surgery has helped surgeons in other cancer types and early breast-focused trials are promising but still limited in size.
Where this research is happening
Cleveland, United States
- Case Western Reserve University — Cleveland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Basilion, James Peter — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Basilion, James Peter
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 below.