Study interactions between lung microbiota and immune cells in NSCLC

Division Of Basic Sciences - Nci

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

Building on our previous work demonstrating the tumor-promoting effects of intratumor bacteria and the development of a spatial meta-transcriptomic method, we have made key advances in both clinical translation and experimental modeling. This year, we treated the first two patients in our ongoing clinical trial evaluating aerosolized antibiotics in combination with pembrolizumab for patients with non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). In response to early experiences and to facilitate broader participation, we have amended the clinical protocol to enhance patient enrollment and trial accessibility. On the preclinical side, we successfully established a murine model in which defined bacterial communities can be colonized directly into lung tumors. This model provides a critical platform to mechanistically investigate how specific microbial populations modulate tumor progression and immune responses in vivo. Together, these efforts are advancing our understanding of the tumor microbiome's role in NSCLC and may lead to novel microbiome-targeted strategies to improve immunotherapy efficacy.