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Updated: Jan 22, 2026
Tissue-simulating Phantoms for Assessing Potential Near-infrared Fluorescence Imaging Applications in Breast Cancer Surgery
Published on: September 19, 2014
Latest developments in molecular tracers for fluorescence image-guided cancer surgery
Sophie Hernot1, Labrinus van Manen2, Pieterjan Debie1
1Laboratory for In-vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.
Abstract:
Real-time intraoperative guidance is essential during oncological surgery for complete and safe tumour resection. Fluorescence imaging in the near-infrared spectrum has shown potential for guiding surgeons during complex interventions. Recently, there has been a shift towards the use of fluorescence contrast agents for molecular imaging. The first targeted fluorescent agents, of which most consist of approved therapeutic antibodies conjugated to a fluorescent dye, have been evaluated in several early-phase clinical trials. Moreover, advances in protein engineering and drug design have led to the development of a variety of tracers suitable for molecular fluorescence image-guided surgery. In this Review, we discuss preclinical and clinical evidence, ongoing clinical trials, and the latest developments in the field of molecular near-infrared tracers for fluorescence-guided cancer surgery.
Insights
Molecular near-infrared tracers enhance oncological surgery by providing real-time guidance for complete tumor resection. These targeted fluorescent agents are advancing image-guided cancer surgery through ongoing clinical trials and new developments.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Imaging
- Surgical Technology
Background:
- Real-time intraoperative guidance is crucial for safe and complete tumor removal in cancer surgery.
- Near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging offers potential for enhanced surgical visualization.
- There is a growing trend towards using molecular contrast agents for improved specificity in imaging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the preclinical and clinical evidence for molecular NIR tracers in image-guided cancer surgery.
- To discuss the latest advancements and ongoing clinical trials in this rapidly evolving field.
- To highlight the potential of targeted fluorescent agents for improving surgical outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical studies and clinical trial data.
- Analysis of recent developments in protein engineering and drug design for tracer development.
- Discussion of molecular imaging principles applied to NIR fluorescence.
Main Results:
- Targeted fluorescent agents, often antibody-dye conjugates, are being evaluated in early-phase clinical trials.
- Advances have led to a variety of tracers suitable for molecular fluorescence-guided surgery.
- Significant progress has been made in developing and applying these tracers.
Conclusions:
- Molecular NIR tracers represent a significant advancement in fluorescence-guided cancer surgery.
- These agents hold promise for improving the safety and efficacy of tumor resection.
- Continued research and clinical evaluation are essential to fully realize their potential.
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