Surgical removal of a tumor remains the primary defense against most solid cancers. However, for surgeons in the operating room, differentiating between the outer edges of a tumor and healthy tissue is a challenge. In aggressive, structurally erratic cancers, this boundary can be especially hard to find. Leaving behind even a microscopic cluster of residual cancer cells significantly elevates the risk of the disease returning and spreading throughout the body.

Sadly, surgeons are not afforded a perfect map of the tumor and instead, must rely on limited visual cues and touch. But a UT San Antonio College of Sciences researcher is working to provide that map.

Syed Muhammad Usama, PhD, assistant professor of chemical biology in the Department of Chemistry, is developing a novel molecular “smart probe.” The technology is designed to make hidden cancer cells glow in real time during surgery, giving surgeons cleaner margins and patients lower risk of recurrence.

Dr Maria Alice Franzoi, medical oncologist and specialist in digital health and care pathway implementation, will present the results of the HOPE study at the ESMO Congress. This clinical trial evaluated a hybrid care pathway combining a mobile application and nurse-led support to help women receiving endocrine therapy for breast cancer. The aim is to reduce the burden of treatment-related side effects, which can compromise adherence to a therapy that is essential for lowering the risk of recurrence, while strengthening patients’ confidence in managing their symptoms. Ultimately, this approach seeks to improve quality of life, access to supportive care, and long-term continuation of endocrine therapy.

To determine which genes in a cell are active, researchers measure the RNA molecules. These are transcripts of the active genes.

A new technology now allows these RNA molecules to be archived in the cells over several days, meaning that information on genetic activity can also be obtained retrospectively.

One of the method’s strengths is that information can be obtained on cells that are only subsequently identified as being of interest – such as those that survive cancer treatment.