Innovative Fluorescent Bacteria Enable Precise Tumor Surgery

Accurate tumor removal remains a major challenge in cancer surgery, often leading to positive margins where residual cancer cells can cause recurrence. Traditional preoperative imaging techniques like ultrasound and MRI sometimes fall short in clearly delineating tumor boundaries, forcing surgeons to rely heavily on experience, which increases the risk of incomplete resection.

In a groundbreaking development, researchers from the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Chungnam National University Hospital, and the National Research Council of Science and Technology have engineered a novel bacterial-based intraoperative imaging platform. This system uses beneficial bacteria that specifically target tumor tissue and emit fluorescence, effectively illuminating cancerous regions during surgery.

The engineered bacteria activate fluorescence exclusively within tumor microenvironments, which are characterized by common features like hypoxia and immune evasion. The fluorescent signal is stable for over 72 hours, enabling surgeons to visualize tumor margins clearly even within complex internal organs. This real-time visualization facilitates more precise tumor resection, minimizing the chances of leftover cancer cells and reducing recurrence risks.

The imaging system operates in the near-infrared spectrum and produces a fluorescence intensity approximately five times stronger than conventional agents. Compatibility with existing surgical equipment, including endoscopes and robotic systems, makes this technology highly translatable to clinical settings. Its broad applicability across various solid tumors offers a promising new standard for surgical precision.

Beyond imaging, the bacterial platform holds potential for theranostic applications—combining diagnosis and therapy. The bacteria can be further engineered to carry anticancer drugs or therapeutic proteins, enabling a more integrated approach to cancer treatment.

Dr. SeungBeum Suh emphasizes the significance of this innovation, stating that bacteria capable of autonomously locating tumors and emitting signals could transform intraoperative imaging. Integration with medical imaging and drug delivery systems aims to expedite clinical translation, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

This revolutionary approach offers a more effective, real-time, and broad-spectrum solution for tumor visualization during surgery, marking a significant advance in cancer management.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-tumor-fluorescent-bacteria-illuminate-cancer.html