Improving tumor removal using a special fluorescent probe
Official title: Optimization of aminolevulinic acid-protoporphyrin IX for fluorescence-guided tumor resection and treatment
Funded at Saint Joseph's University · NIH-10705406 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special tool that helps surgeons see tumors better during surgery, using a fluorescent substance that makes the tumors glow, so they can remove them more completely and improve recovery for patients with solid tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Saint Joseph's University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2022 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $422,018 |
| NIH project number | 6R15CA268200-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10705406 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing surgery for solid tumors, including brain and skin cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with tumors that do not respond to fluorescence-guided techniques or those not undergoing surgical treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of surgery for solid tumors by using a fluorescent probe called aminolevulinic acid (ALA). ALA is metabolized by tumor cells to produce a fluorescent compound that helps surgeons visualize tumors in real-time during surgery. By understanding the characteristics of tumors that affect fluorescence, the researchers aim to develop methods to improve the visibility of tumors, leading to more complete removals and better patient outcomes. This approach could significantly enhance the precision of tumor resections and reduce the chances of cancer recurrence.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective tumor removals and improved surgical outcomes for cancer patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that fluorescence-guided surgery can improve tumor resection outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Saint Joseph's University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Bin — Saint Joseph's University
- Study coordinator: Chen, Bin
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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.