Adaptive Immunotherapy

Research Strategy

The focus of our scientific work so far has been the in-depth analysis and modulation of the solid tumor microenvironment, in particular the complex interactions of cells of the immune system. The developed technologies allow the study of spatial and functional interactions in minimal tissue samples from patients. Whole tissue scanning on slides and virtual overlay technology combined with targeted proteomics create a sophisticated picture of the different complexities in individual patients and cancer entities. Spatial contexture like the specific analysis of sub-compartments (e.g., invasive margin or adipose tissue etc.) further allow to better understand the regulatory mechanisms and their potential for intervention in cancer patients. This is further complemented by research on novel exploratory mathematical or computational approaches to harness the information within the tissue and provide insights for new angles in the analysis of heterogeneous datasets. The translation of these findings into successful clinical interventions and meaningful clinical trials has demonstrated and is demonstrating the validity of this approach. The long-term goal is to integrate differential analyses and an integrated targeted approach (i.e., cellular strategies and modulatory strategies together) into innovative translational studies.

Area of research: Identification of novel treatment approaches for cancer, utilizing systems medicine approaches for rapid translation into clinical trials