Epidermal growth factor receptor-targeted near-infrared probe cetuximab-IRDye800CW enables stable and tumor-specific fluorescence imaging in colorectal cancer models
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: SignificanceColorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major cause of cancer-related mortality, with incomplete resection contributing to recurrence and poor survival. Improving intraoperative margin detection is critical to enhance surgical precision and patient outcomes.AimWe aim to evaluate the tumor-targeting specificity of cetuximab-IRDye800CW (Cet-IRDye800CW), an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-specific near-infrared probe, for fluorescence-guided surgery in CRC models.ApproachCet-IRDye800CW and IgG-IRDye800CW controls were synthesized and tested in LS174T and SW948 xenografts as well as patient-derived xenografts (PDXs). Mice received 200 μg of the probe intravenously and underwent daily fluorescence imaging for 10 days. Tumor-to-background ratio (TBR) and mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) were quantified, and EGFR expression was analyzed by Western blot, reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and immunohistochemistry.ResultsCetuximab-IRDye800CW significantly enhanced tumor fluorescence compared with controls in all models (p<0.05). TBR increased progressively and peaked on day 10 (LS174T: 25.6±2.94; SW948: 21.6±1.71), whereas background MFI declined, resulting in improved tumor contrast. Tumor-specific fluorescence was detectable from day 1 and intensified over time. Similar findings were observed in PDX models, consistent with high EGFR expression.ConclusionCetuximab-IRDye800CW provides stable, tumor-specific, high-contrast fluorescence imaging in EGFR-high CRC models. These findings validate its molecular targeting capability and support its translational potential for fluorescence-guided CRC surgery.
Source: Journal of Biomedical Optics
Institutions: Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou University
Language: English
Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,675
OpenAlex ID: W4416938876