Improving lung cancer surgery with a new diagnostic tool

Validation and Translation of MasSpec Pen Technology for Intraoperative Evaluation of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11093913

This study is testing a new tool called the MasSpec Pen that helps doctors quickly and accurately identify cancerous tissues during surgery for non-small cell lung cancer, aiming to make surgeries safer and more effective for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11093913 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the surgical treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) by validating a new technology called the MasSpec Pen. This innovative tool allows for rapid and accurate diagnosis of cancerous tissues during surgery, which is crucial for determining the extent of tumor removal. By providing real-time feedback to surgeons, the MasSpec Pen aims to reduce the reliance on outdated methods that can lead to errors and longer surgery times. Patients undergoing surgery for NSCLC may benefit from improved outcomes and reduced complications due to more precise surgical decisions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer who are scheduled for surgical intervention.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of lung cancer or those not requiring surgical treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective surgical treatments for lung cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using innovative diagnostic technologies in surgical settings, suggesting potential success for the MasSpec Pen.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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 Breast CancerCancer CauseCancer Detectioncancer diagnosisCancer Etiology
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.