New optical probes to better visualize cancer cells

Cherenkov luminescence mediated excitation of discrete lanthanide optical probes

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-10753481

This study is working on new imaging tools that help doctors see cancer cells more clearly while keeping healthy cells less visible, which could lead to better and less invasive ways to diagnose and treat cancer for patients like you.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10753481 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing advanced optical imaging probes that can selectively illuminate cancer cells while minimizing the visibility of healthy cells. By utilizing luminescent lanthanide complexes, the study aims to create probes that are more water-soluble and biocompatible than traditional organic dyes, which often have limitations in their effectiveness. The goal is to enhance the precision of cancer diagnosis, surgical procedures, and monitoring of treatment responses through improved imaging techniques. Patients may benefit from more accurate and less invasive diagnostic methods as a result of this research.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with various types of cancers, particularly those requiring precise imaging for treatment planning.

Not a fit: Patients with non-malignant conditions or those not requiring imaging for cancer diagnosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate cancer diagnoses and improved surgical outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using luminescent probes for imaging, but this specific approach with lanthanide complexes is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

MADISON, 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: Cancers, neoplasm/cancer, in situ cancer, Disorder

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.