Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) dependent immune escape in hepatocellular carcinoma (P19*)

• Subject Area: Gastroenterology
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 441891347

In P19 we plan to evaluate the role of oncogenic Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK) signaling as a common and targetable driver of immune escape in Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Using Imaging Mass Cytometry and FAK gain and loss of-function models we will determine the key immune effector components affected by FAK-mediated immune escape (Aim 1). Aim 2 is dedicated to the identification of the driving pathways and mediators of this immune escape. In Aim 3 we will assess the therapeutic potential of targeting FAK for overcoming resistance to immune checkpoint inhibition in HCC.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1479: Oncogene-driven immune escape (OncoEscape)
• Applicant Institution: Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg
• Project Heads: Professorin Dr. Maike Hofmann; Dr. Natascha Röhlen