Improving surgery for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors using fluorescent agents

Receptor-Targeted Fluorescence-Guided Surgery in Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCI CTR HOUSTON · NIH-10909275

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

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCI CTR HOUSTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10909275 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors who are scheduled for surgical intervention.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of pancreatic cancer or those who are not surgical candidates may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: anti-cancer therapy, Cancer Center, cancer metastasis, cancer therapy, Cancer Treatment

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.