Glow-in-the-Dark dye could help surgeons spot hidden brain tumors

NCT ID NCT03262636

Completed Disease control Sponsor: University of Pennsylvania Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This completed Phase 1 trial tested whether a dye called indocyanine green (ICG) can make brain tumor cells glow during surgery, helping surgeons see and remove them more completely. 363 adults with brain tumors received an ICG injection before surgery, and special cameras captured the glow. The goal was to improve how much tumor is removed, which could lower the chance of the tumor coming back and improve survival.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: indocyanine green (ICG)
What this could lead to: If successful, this imaging technique could help surgeons remove more tumor tissue during brain surgery, potentially improving survival and reducing recurrence.
What could go wrong: This is an early-phase trial focused on safety and imaging accuracy, not yet proven to improve survival. The dye may not highlight all tumor cells, and results may not apply to all brain tumor types.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

brain cancer brain neoplasm central nervous system cancer central nervous system neoplasm primary brain neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

BRAIN TUMOR RECURRENT BRAIN TUMOR, PRIMARY

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