BME-seminar 2, Imaging-Based Exploration of Immune Effector Functions in Microtumor Models.

Advances in cancer therapeutics face significant challenges, as shown by high failure rates in clinical trials. A key factor contributing to this issue is the reliance on preclinical models that predominantly use cells cultured in suspension or as monolayers, which fail to accurately represent the heterogeneous properties of the tumor microenvironment. However, the development of miniaturized multicellular systems, such as tumor-on-a-chip, offers promising alternatives to improve disease modeling, drug screening, and personalized medicine.

In this seminar, I will present my work using microscopy-optimized microwell platforms to study immune anti-tumor functions. This research focuses on cytotoxic mechanisms and tumor infiltration of γδ T cells, unconventional T cells with innate-like properties that play a pivotal role in immune defence against both solid and haematological cancers. As I establish my research group, I will also share my future goals to develop innovative diagnostic and therapeutic nanotechnologies and advance our understanding of disease mechanisms and progression.

Bio: Dr. Patrick Sandoz is an Assistant Professor and SciLifeLab Fellow at the Division of Biomedical Engineering, Dept. of Materials Science and Engineering, Uppsala University. He specializes in developing methods to study the properties of the tumor microenvironment and harness immune responses for cancer treatment.

Please register by March 12 if you would like to receive a pastry.