Targeting c-Rel induced vulnerabilities in pancreatic cancer

• Applicant: Dr. Derya Bakirdögen, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Gastroenterology ; Hematology, Oncology ; Immunology ; Pathology ; Cell Biology
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 453134213

Pro-tumorigenic roles of c-Rel in regulatory T cells (Tregs), myeloid cells, and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been reported across various cancer types. Our preliminary data suggest an overall oncogenic role of c-Rel in pancreatic cancer cells. Consequently, we aim to exploit c-Rel–induced vulnerabilities in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), considering its role not only in tumor cells but also in immunosuppressive immune populations. Nevertheless, we do not exclude the possibility that RelA (p65) may interfere with or modulate c-Rel function. Therefore, we intend to further investigate the molecular crosstalk between RelA and c-Rel. Overall, our study seeks to address three central questions: How does the crosstalk between c-Rel and RelA influence PDAC prognosis? Which immune cell types exhibit c-Rel–associated vulnerabilities in PDAC? Can c-Rel inhibitors be leveraged in combination with immunomodulatory therapies?

• DFG Programme: Research Grants