V-1520

V-1520 is a near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence-based optical probe designed to target the translocator protein (TSPO). Developed at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, it is primarily used for the early identification and localization of high-risk premalignant pancreatic lesions and pancreatic cancer. TSPO is highly expressed in pancreatic cancer cells and early dysplastic lesions, making it a viable biomarker for imaging. V-1520 facilitates fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) by improving resection margins and allowing for the removal of small lesions that are not visible under standard white light. Preclinical studies in mouse models have demonstrated its ability to differentiate tumors from surrounding healthy tissue at early stages of disease progression.