Using a special dye to help remove breast tumors more effectively

Fluorescence-guided resection of breast tumors using a topically-applied molecular probe

NIH-funded research Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10745913

This study is testing a new way to help surgeons find and remove all cancer cells during breast cancer surgery using a special light-up probe, which could lead to better outcomes and fewer follow-up treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10745913 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new method for improving breast cancer surgery by using a topically-applied molecular probe that fluoresces when it binds to cancer cells. The goal is to enhance the surgeon's ability to identify and remove all cancerous tissue during breast-conserving surgery, which is crucial for reducing the risk of cancer recurrence. By providing real-time feedback during surgery, this approach aims to minimize the chances of positive margins, which can lead to further treatments and poorer outcomes. Patients may benefit from a more successful surgery with potentially fewer follow-up procedures.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with breast cancer who are eligible for breast-conserving surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced breast cancer requiring mastectomy or those not eligible for surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective breast cancer surgeries, reducing the need for additional treatments and improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results with fluorescence-guided surgery techniques in various cancers, indicating potential for success in this novel application for breast cancer.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, 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.
Conditions Breast CancerCancersneoplasm/cancerEpithelial cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.