The clinical translation of a near-infrared fluorophore for fluorescence guided surgery: SGM-101 from the lab to a phase III trial

Near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging is a promising intraoperative technique for real-time visualization of tumor tissue during surgery. The process of clinical translation of novel fluorescent agents is an essential part in the evolution of NIR fluorescence guided surgery. Poor visualization of tumors during surgery is one of the major challenges surgeons often face in oncologic patients, mainly due to the improved neo-adjuvant treatment patients receive. In these cases, NIR fluorescence imaging with the use of tumor-targeted fluorescent agents can play an essential role and help provide better oncologic results or patient outcomes. However, before this technique can be implemented in standard of care, optimal tumor-targeted fluorescent agents need to be developed and novel fluorescent agents need to undergo a successful process of clinical translation. Here we describe the clinical translation of SGM-101, a fluorescent anti-CEA monoclonal antibody.