Fluorescent probes to guide pancreatic cancer surgery
Molecular Imaging Probe(s) for Optical Surgical Navigation of Pancreatic Cancer
This project develops a glowing antibody that helps surgeons see pancreatic cancer and high-risk precursor lesions during operations.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11257301 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team is creating a monoclonal antibody that binds MUC4, a protein found on pancreatic cancer and some precursor lesions, and attaching a near-infrared dye so tumor tissue lights up during surgery. They will characterize how the labeled probe distributes in models and in tissue samples, optimize dosing and timing, and refine imaging methods for use in the operating room. The work combines laboratory experiments, imaging tests, and preclinical safety and biodistribution studies to prepare the probe for clinical use. If suitable, the probe would be used during surgery to help the surgeon identify and remove cancer more precisely.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people scheduled for surgical resection of pancreatic cancer or those with high-risk precursor pancreatic lesions being considered for surgery.
Not a fit: Patients with widespread, unresectable metastatic disease, those not undergoing surgery, or tumors that do not express MUC4 are unlikely to benefit from this imaging approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help surgeons remove pancreatic tumors more completely, reduce local recurrence, and potentially improve survival.
How similar studies have performed: Fluorescence-guided surgery with antibody–dye conjugates has shown promise in other cancers, though targeting MUC4 for pancreatic surgical navigation is a relatively new approach.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bouvet, Michael — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Bouvet, Michael
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.