Improving surgery for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors using fluorescent agents
Official title: Receptor-Targeted Fluorescence-Guided Surgery in Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10909275 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new dye that helps surgeons see pancreatic tumors better during surgery, making it easier to remove them completely and improve recovery for patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2022 |
| Project end | February 28, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $436,565 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA263512-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909275 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors who are scheduled for surgical intervention.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of pancreatic cancer or those who are not surgical candidates may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance surgical outcomes for patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) by developing a fluorescently labeled contrast agent that helps surgeons accurately identify tumors during surgery. The approach involves using a specially designed dye that targets specific receptors on the tumors, allowing for better visualization and removal. By translating a clinical radiotracer into a fluorescent agent, the study seeks to improve the effectiveness of fluorescence-guided surgery, which is crucial for achieving complete tumor removal and improving patient survival rates.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective surgeries for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, potentially increasing survival rates and reducing the risk of cancer recurrence.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using fluorescence-guided surgery with targeted agents in other cancers, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Azhdarinia, Ali — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Azhdarinia, Ali
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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.