Improving prostate cancer surgery with advanced imaging and therapy techniques
Official title: Fluorescence image guided surgery, adjuvant PDT, and the immune response
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11115733 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to help doctors find and remove prostate cancer during surgery using special imaging and light therapy, aiming to improve recovery and lower the chances of cancer coming back, so it's designed for men facing prostate cancer treatment.
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 start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $577,657 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EB034660-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11115733 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are men diagnosed with localized prostate cancer, particularly those at high risk for surgical complications or recurrence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced metastatic prostate cancer or those who are not surgical candidates may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing surgical outcomes for prostate cancer patients by developing a targeted agent that aids in the identification and removal of cancerous tissues during surgery. The approach combines fluorescence imaging to guide surgeons in real-time and photodynamic therapy to stimulate an immune response against any remaining cancer cells. By improving the precision of surgery, the goal is to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Patients will be monitored for their immune response and overall outcomes post-surgery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective prostate cancer surgeries, reducing recurrence rates and improving patient quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using fluorescence imaging and photodynamic therapy in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Basilion, James Peter — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Basilion, James Peter
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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.