The role of the NPM-ALK / PD-1 axis for immune response to T cell lymphoma (P04)

• Subject Area: Hematology, Oncology ; Rheumatology
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 441891347

This project will characterise how the NPM-ALK drives the immunological changes in anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) for immune escape, immune metabolism, cytotoxic function and exhaustion of the surrounding non-malignant T cells via immune checkpoints. In particular, we will evaluate the complex interplay between oncogene and T cell antigen receptor (TCR) signalling for immune escape and potential hyper-progression using cell-based and murine models. Using translational approaches, we aim to identify the effects of ICB on ALCL in an in vivo transplantation model. In this way, we will investigate whether ICB leads to hyper-progression of ALCL and which cell population is essential for sufficient ALCL eradication.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1479: Oncogene-driven immune escape (OncoEscape)
• Applicant Institution: Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg
• Project Head: Professorin Dr. Lena Illert