#47 – Bill Peters, CEO at On Target Laboratories

A Vision for Smarter Surgery

Bill Peters, CEO of On Target Laboratories, is on a mission to revolutionize oncology surgery. His company has developed an innovative imaging technology that allows surgeons to visualize cancer at the cellular level during procedures. By leveraging near-infrared imaging, On Target Laboratories provides an unprecedented level of precision, ensuring that surgeons remove as much cancerous tissue as possible while preserving healthy tissue.

Cytalux: A Breakthrough in Tumor Visualization

The company’s flagship product, Cytalux, is designed to enhance tumor detection during surgery. Administered intravenously before a procedure, Cytalux binds to cancer cells and fluoresces under a near-infrared camera, effectively lighting up tumors that might otherwise go undetected. This technology is particularly beneficial in lung and ovarian cancer surgeries, where accurate identification of cancerous tissue is crucial.

Why Lung and Ovarian Cancer?

Lung cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers worldwide, making the need for precision surgery more critical than ever. Recent research supports minimally invasive approaches that preserve lung function, and Cytalux enhances these techniques by helping surgeons identify and remove cancer with greater accuracy.

Similarly, ovarian cancer presents significant challenges due to its tendency to spread before detection. Cytalux helps surgeons pinpoint affected areas more precisely, potentially improving patient outcomes.

Clinical Trials and Expanding Applications

On Target Laboratories is actively conducting clinical studies to explore additional applications for its imaging technology. The goal is not only to improve the effectiveness of existing cancer surgeries but also to develop new approaches that may reduce the need for invasive procedures. The company’s ongoing research is focused on expanding the technology’s reach to different types of cancer and enhancing its use in deeper tissues.

Surgeon Collaboration: The Key to Progress

One of the driving forces behind the company’s success is its close collaboration with surgeons. On Target Laboratories works alongside physicians to gather insights and refine its technology. Surgeons who have used Cytalux often describe “aha moments” where they identify tumors they wouldn’t have seen with traditional imaging methods.

What’s Next for On Target Laboratories?

Looking ahead, the company is poised to lead the charge in interoperative molecular imaging, a field that is expected to transform surgery over the next decade. With a strong focus on early-stage cancer detection and improving surgical precision, On Target Laboratories continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in cancer treatment.

The company is also engaging with hospital systems, pharmaceutical teams, and medical professionals at major conferences, such as the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) and the Society for Robotic Surgery (SRS). These events provide opportunities to connect with experts and expand the adoption of Cytalux.

Final Thoughts: A Call to Surgeons

For surgeons interested in improving cancer detection and surgical outcomes, On Target Laboratories offers an open invitation to collaborate. Their mission is simple—help doctors see cancer better to remove more of it, ultimately improving patient survival and quality of life.

As the company continues to grow and evolve, its cutting-edge imaging technology is setting a new standard in cancer surgery, offering hope for better treatments and brighter futures.