Tracers that enable imaging of peripheral nerve structures have the potential to support nerve sparing surgical procedures and with that reduce the surgical side effects. Hence, an enabling fluorescence-guided surgery technique that can specifically stain nerves will help reduce the morbidity rate and related follow up costs in patient in need of nerve sparing. This means that the quality of life of these patients can be improved directly. The ability to visualize peripheral nerves also opens up new commercial-avenues for companies involved in the surgical market.
The aim of the MY NERVE ERC-PoC project was to convert a lead compound able to selectively stain myelinating nerves (product ILLUMINATING NERVES ERC-StG) in to a compound suited for further clinical translation. Systematic alterations in length, geometry, and dye labeling were applied to more accurately define the structure-activity relation of the lead compound, and to improve its affinity and formulation. Compatibility with clinical good manufacturing practice (GMP) production requirements, in combination with in vitro and in vivo evaluations has provided a solid basis for further translation and commercialization. By creating a molecular marker that is specific for the peripheral nervous system, it has become possible to perform nerve sparing surgery. Currently, discussions with industrial partners with regards to licensing and commercialization are ongoing.
