SHINE-Path
The SHINE-Path project aims to transform brain tumor diagnosis and treatment with an innovative system that uses fiber-optic autofluorescence imaging and explainable AI for real-time, in situ tissue analysis. This approach promises safer, faster, and more precise procedures, paving the way for advancements in neurosurgery and beyond.
The European Union offers a variety of funding programmes to support research and education as a valuable public good. Our project was funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
The project ShinePath (100778363) is co-financed from tax revenues on the basis of the budget adopted by the Saxon State Parliament.
Project duration: 15.11.2025 – 31.12.2027
Advancing Brain Tumor Diagnostics
The treatment of brain tumors remains a complex field, in part due to limitations in currently available diagnostic and prognostic approaches. Several established methods are associated with considerable time requirements, high costs, or limited availability. Previous research of the group has shown that addressing autofluorescence patterns constitute a promising strategy for analyzing brain tumors intraoperatively.
The SHINE-Path project builds on this approach and aims at developing a minimally invasive medical device for real-time intraoperative brain tumor diagnostics and therapy guidance. The project integrates a flexible fiber-based endoscope, which captures label-free autofluorescence images in direct contact with brain tissue, with explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) for real-time tissue classification. The system is intended for stereotactic biopsies, allowing the fiber probe to be inserted into biopsy needles. This approach enables in situ diagnostics, reduces tissue sampling and risk of bleeding, and helps preventing inconclusive biopsies.
Collaboration among clinical, technical, and design experts
Advanced Fiber Tools GmbH is responsible for developing and manufacturing the specialized fiber-optic probe, while the Chair of Measurement and Sensor Technology at TU Dresden leads optical system design, image reconstruction, and XAI-based analysis. Effigos AG contributes an interactive 3D anatomical modelling for simulation and neurosurgical training and communication, and neongrau OHG leads user-centered product design and human–machine interaction. Regulatory strategy and clinical translation are provided by the Else Kröner Centre for Digital Health. The Department of Neurosurgery will investigate brain tumor autofluorescence patterns in detail to better understand cellular correlates, thereby identifying clinical use cases as well as limitations.
By integrating advanced optics, XAI with clinical expertise, and user-centered design, SHINE-Path seeks to enable safer, faster, and more precise brain tumor diagnosis and treatment, with significant potential for future application to other minimally invasive procedures and open neurosurgical resections.