Improving efficacy of checkpoint blockade therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma with in situ vaccination

Project start
Institution: Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Charité Universitaetsmedizin Berlin
Applicant: Dr. rer. nat. Linda Hammerich
EKFS funding line: First and Second Applications
Graphic
The HCC tumor microenvironment. In the non-inflamed tumor a variety of immunosuppressive cells mediate immune evasion whereas an inflamed tumor microenvironment is characterized by depletion of tolerogenic and infiltration of inflammatory cells, enabling
(© Created with biorender.com | Linda Hammerich)

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) typically occurs in patients with chronic liver diseases and is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Response rates to immunotherapies, such as checkpoint inhibitors, are still very low and likely depend on an inflamed tumor. In this project, we aim to generate a cancer vaccine that can induce inflammation of HCC tumors and therefore boost response to immunotherapies. We will test our vaccine in two animal models of HCC that represent the 2 most common etiologies of human liver cancer. In addition, we will analyze blood and liver samples from patients with HCC in order to translate the findings from the mouse model to the human setting. The results of our study will be used to design future clinical trials for HCC treatment.

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