Cancer Biomaterials Engineering

Division Of Basic Sciences - Nci

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

The Lab studies both tissue-derived and synthetic biomaterials as immune regulators during cancer defense in the following project areas: (1) Tumor extracellular matrix scaffolds for 3D organoid tumor modeling and (2) biomaterial immune modulation and delivery of cancer immunotherapeutics in vivo. The lab has developed 3D tumor organoid models that incorporate tissue derived extracellular matrix scaffolds and are evaluating the role of this ECM on maintenance of cancer cell differentiation and drug resistance. In vivo, the lab is also using similar tissue derived matrices as a delivery system for immune adjuvants used in cancer immunotherapy. This includes extensive immune characterization of the biomaterial microenvironment and the efficacy of this system to develop anti-tumor immune responses.