The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), which block key immune checkpoints, has revolutionized the treatment of urologic malignancies. While metastasized renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) was once a difficult-to-treat condition with a poor prognosis, patients now have a better prognosis thanks to ICI therapy. However, a significant number do not respond to treatment. The molecular and immunological mechanisms of response and non-response to therapy are poorly understood.
To change this, Charis Kalogirou of Würzburg University Hospital aims to identify biomarkers that can detect early therapy failure and the development of severe side effects. The research project at the Single-Cell Center Würzburg, which also involves Emmanuel Saliba from the Helmholtz Institute Würzburg, Clément Cochain from the Comprehensive Heart Failure Center, Niklas Beyersdorf from the University of Würzburg and Oliver Hahn from the University Medical Center Göttingen, could help optimize mRCC patient care.
