The tumour microenvironment can be challenging to target for the immune system, as it can develop several immunosuppresive mechanisms that inhibit the correct function of the T cells. However, the T cells can be modified to enhance this response and eliminate the tumour cells. I found this fascinating, and I am working to identify new targets to enhance T cell survival and/or function within the tumour microenvironment.
During my doctoral studies, I worked on new strategies for cancer immunotherapy. I worked on inhibition of regulatory T cells using viral vector and aptamers to carrying different siRNA and gRNAs. I used also combinations of antitumoral vaccines that expressed immunomodulators like 4-1BBL, OX40L, and GM-CSF to enhance the immune response against cancer.