New optical agents to improve brain tumor surgery

Optical Analogs to MRI Contrast Agents for Surgical Guidance of Brain Tumor Resection

['FUNDING_R01'] · DARTMOUTH COLLEGE · NIH-10994062

This study is exploring new ways to help doctors see brain tumors more clearly during surgery, which could lead to better outcomes for patients by making it easier to remove the tumors completely.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDARTMOUTH COLLEGE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HANOVER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10994062 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the development of optical analogs to traditional MRI contrast agents to enhance surgical guidance during brain tumor resections. By improving the visibility of tumors during surgery, the goal is to increase the likelihood of complete tumor removal, which is crucial for better patient outcomes. The approach involves using advanced imaging techniques that could provide real-time feedback to surgeons, potentially leading to more accurate and effective surgeries. The research aims to address the limitations of current methods, such as the reliance on gadolinium-based MRI agents and the challenges posed by brain deformation during surgery.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with brain tumors who are scheduled for surgical resection.

Not a fit: Patients with brain tumors that are not operable or those who are not candidates for surgery may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved surgical outcomes for patients with brain tumors by enabling more complete tumor resections.

How similar studies have performed: Similar research efforts have shown promise in enhancing surgical outcomes through improved imaging techniques, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

HANOVER, 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 →

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.