Near-Infrared Imaging Using a Cathepsin-Targeted, Quenched Activity-Based Probe Identifies Naturally Occurring Canine Appendicular Osteosarcoma

These data support the safety and feasibility of VGT-309 as a tool for evaluating the tissue extent of canine osteosarcoma and spur investigation for intraoperative detection of osteosarcoma during limb-sparing surgery in humans. Due to frequent intramedullary tumor extension and inconsistent fluorescence through unaffected cortical bone, this modality is likely most appropriate for assessing residual tumor following planned resection. Caution should be exercised when significant tumor necrosis is present.