Navigating early detection and image-guided therapy in pancreatic malignancies with multifunctional fluorescent probes

Abstract

The pancreas serves essential roles in both the digestive and endocrine systems, responsible for secreting digestive enzymes that facilitate nutrient breakdown in the small intestine and releasing hormones critical to glucose homeostasis. Structural or functional impairment of the pancreas can therefore lead to severe systemic consequences. Fluorescent probes have emerged as promising tools for early disease detection and targeted therapeutic interventions. However, pancreatic imaging poses unique challenges including deep retroperitoneal location, dense fibrotic stroma, and poor probe delivery efficiency. This review synthesizes recent advances in the development and application of fluorescent probes for pancreatic diseases, offering a systematic analysis of their structural design, sensing mechanisms, performance metrics, and comparative advantages. We also examine the translational potential of novel probe technologies—such as nanoprobes and multimodal imaging agents—in clinical practice, highlighting key directions for future research. It is anticipated that this review will serve as a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians engaged in the application of fluorescent probes for pancreatic disease diagnosis and treatment.