Pharmacology of near infrared nerve-specific fluorophores for fluorescence-guided nerve sparing surgical procedures

Nerve damage plagues surgical outcomes, significantly affecting post-surgical quality of life. Intraoperative nerve detection is difficult since neuroanatomy is varilable between patients, and nerves are typically protected deep within the tissue. Fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) offers a potential means for enhanced intraoperative nerve identification and preservation. We have developed the first near infrared (NIR) nerve-specific fluorophores for use during FGS. Lead optimization has yielded water soluble derivatives with excellent safety and pharmacology parameters. Work is underway to plan and execute preclinical toxicity testing to enable first-in-human clincial trials.