Using special imaging probes to improve surgery for pancreatic cancer

Molecular Imaging Probe(s) for Optical Surgical Navigation of Pancreatic Cancer

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11005206

This study is testing a new imaging tool that helps surgeons see pancreatic cancer more clearly during surgery, which could lead to better outcomes for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11005206 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing surgical procedures for pancreatic cancer by using a novel imaging probe that targets a specific protein called MUC4, which is overexpressed in pancreatic tumors. The approach involves administering a monoclonal antibody labeled with a fluorescent dye to help surgeons visualize cancerous tissues more clearly during operations. By improving the accuracy of tumor detection, this method aims to reduce local recurrence rates and improve patient survival outcomes. Patients undergoing surgery for pancreatic cancer may benefit from this advanced imaging technique.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer or its precursor lesions who are scheduled for surgical resection.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer that can be treated effectively without surgery may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective surgical outcomes and improved survival rates for patients with pancreatic cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with fluorescence-guided imaging techniques in cancer surgeries, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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 advanced diseaseCancer Cause
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.