Checkpoint inhibitors that enable T cells to eliminate tumor cells have revolutionized cancer treatment, demonstrating the vast potential of immune-modulatory therapies. However, only a minority of patients respond today, underscoring the urgent need for more effective strategies. Our research aims to uncover key immune-modulatory mechanisms within the tumor microenvironment and to develop novel immunotherapeutic approaches based on these insights.

We have constructed a spatially resolved single-cell atlas of immune cells in bladder tumors, which enabled us to define and characterize the populations with spatial precision. We identified immune cell aggregates and mapped their constituent subsets, providing valuable insights into immune cell interactions within the tumor microenvironment. Importantly, the results led to the discovery of a novel, promising immune cell drug target and we are now developing a treatment strategy based on this target. To support preclinical evaluation, we have also established a translational tumor explant model that enables functional testing of candidate therapeutics in a physiologically relevant context. Notably, preliminary data support that our target is relevant beyond bladder cancer, and this is something we aim to explore further. We welcome collaborations, especially to validate the target in different model systems and explore its therapeutic potential across additional cancer types.  

Our findings pave the way for novel treatment strategies, and by advancing this research, we aim to significantly improve patient outcomes in bladder cancer and beyond.