Using small molecules to improve surgery for head and neck cancer
Small Molecule Probes for Fluorescence-guided Head and Neck Cancer Surgery
This study is working on a new way to help doctors see tumors better during surgery for head and neck cancer, using special dyes that make the cancer glow, so they can remove all the bad tissue while keeping the healthy parts safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11086858 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing surgical outcomes for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma by developing small molecule probes that improve the visibility of tumors during surgery. The approach utilizes fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) to provide real-time imaging of tumor margins, helping surgeons accurately identify and remove cancerous tissues while preserving healthy structures. By integrating advanced imaging techniques with existing surgical practices, the study aims to bridge the gap between preoperative imaging and actual surgical conditions. This innovative method could lead to better surgical precision and potentially improved survival rates for patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who are scheduled for surgical intervention.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage head and neck cancers that do not require surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective surgeries for head and neck cancer, reducing the likelihood of cancer recurrence and improving patient survival rates.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using fluorescence-guided surgery for other cancer types, indicating potential success for this novel application in head and neck cancer.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Lei Garrett — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Wang, Lei Garrett
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.