Using small molecules to improve surgery for head and neck cancer
Official title: Small Molecule Probes for Fluorescence-guided Head and Neck Cancer Surgery
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11086858 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $192,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21EB034340-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11086858 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who are scheduled for surgical intervention.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage head and neck cancers that do not require surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Lei Garrett — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Wang, Lei Garrett
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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.