Dr. Jung-Jae Lee, Associate Professor in University of Colorado Denver's Department of Chemistry, has received a Wings of Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Research grant to develop an innovative imaging tool that could help surgeons more effectively identify and remove pancreatic tumors.
Dr. Lee’s project centers on "advanced nanoprobes." These nanoprobes are self-illuminating particles designed to highlight tumor tissue, showing surgeons exactly where a tumor is during surgery. Unlike current imaging methods, these nanoprobes can function in oxygen-poor regions of tumors, where traditional technologies often fail to provide clear visibility.
By making it easier for surgeons to distinguish cancerous tissue and metastatic lymph nodes, this technology has the potential to increase surgical precision, reduce complications, and improve recovery outcomes for people with pancreatic cancer.
Dr. Lee’s work reflects CU Denver’s commitment to translational research that bridges fundamental chemistry and medical innovation, bringing new hope to patients facing one of the most challenging cancers to treat.