New review explores the cellular crosstalk in ovarian cancer tumor microenvironment
A new review published in Trends in Cancer provides a comprehensive overview of the cellular interactions within the ovarian cancer microenvironment, highlighting how T cells and other immune cells communicate and influence tumor progression. This work introduces advanced techniques like spatial proteomics and 3D ex vivo models to dissect and perturb cellular interactions, offering new insights into potential therapeutic strategies.
In this review* published in Trends in Cancer, researchers from the Department of Oncology UNIL-CHUV and the Lausanne Branch of the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, present cutting-edge evidence on how cellular crosstalk within the ovarian cancer (OC) tumor microenvironment (TME) orchestrates immune responses and influences patient outcomes. The study offers insights into the intricate interactions between T cells and other immune cell populations, explaining how these networks regulate immune infiltration, tumor immunity, and therapeutic responses.
Read the full <<review>>
This work, led by Bovannak S. Chap and directed by Dr Denarda Dangaj Laniti, introduces innovative technologies, such as spatial proteomics, transcriptomics, and advanced computational approaches, to explore the cellular landscape of ovarian cancer. Additionally, the researchers emphasize the importance of 3D ex vivo models, such as organoids and patient-derived explants, in mapping and perturbing these cellular networks. By disrupting key cellular interactions, these models hold the potential to identify new therapeutic targets and improve patient selection for immunotherapy.
"Our work highlights the need for a deeper understanding of how immune cells like T cells function within the ovarian cancer microenvironment. By revealing these interactions, we can develop more effective therapies for this challenging disease," said Denarda Dangaj Laniti, corresponding author of the review.
Research for this study was supported by the Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), the University of Lausanne (UNIL), Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research and the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD).
* Crosstalk of T cells within the ovarian cancer microenvironment
by Carine Dournes Söhnlein (DO communication)