Using advanced imaging to improve brain tumor surgery
Label-free fluorescence lifetime imaging for intraoperative real-time guidance of neurological procedures
This study is testing a new imaging technique that helps neurosurgeons tell the difference between healthy and unhealthy brain tissue during surgery, making it easier to remove tumors and improve patient outcomes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10993679 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the ability of neurosurgeons to differentiate between normal and abnormal brain tissue during surgery using a technique called label-free Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging (FLIm). By analyzing the biochemical and metabolic characteristics of tissues in real-time, the technology aims to provide visual information that helps guide tumor biopsies and resections. The FLIm data will be integrated with preoperative MRI scans to improve the accuracy of tumor margin delineation, potentially leading to better surgical outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing surgery for brain tumors or abnormalities.
Not a fit: Patients with non-tumor related neurological conditions or those not requiring surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the precision of brain tumor surgeries, leading to better patient outcomes and reduced recurrence rates.
How similar studies have performed: Similar imaging techniques have shown promise in improving surgical outcomes in other areas, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Davis, United States
- University of California at Davis — Davis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marcu, Laura — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Marcu, Laura
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 below.