Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis

The Tumor Microenvironment and Metastasis (TMM) Research Program is a basic science research program that supports the IUSCCC mission to lead the battle against cancer in the state of Indiana. Through one goal that encompasses two themes and four specific aims, we seek to understand the pathobiology of solid tumors, the tumor microenvironment (TME), and systemic effects of metastases and endeavor to develop our findings into new cancer targets and novel therapies. TMM discoveries have led to clinical trials conducted in collaboration with the EDT and CPC Research Programs with guidance from COE. To reach our goal, we ensure that TMM investigators benefit from our highly interactive and collegial research environment, which in turn enhances our translational mission through intra- and inter-programmatic collaborations and inter-institutional collaborations. Our long-term objectives also include a strong focus on junior faculty mentoring toward successful cancer research careers and to foster progress in strengthening broad participation in all aspects of cancer-related research and workforce. To reach this objective, the Associate and Assistant Directors of Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination (CRTEC), Nakshatri and Walczak (both TMM members), help coordinate CRTEC-TMM mentor- mentee matches. Furthermore, we have re-organized and carefully evaluated our membership and made extensive revisions to the Themes and Aims to fit new areas of research focus and the IUSCCC Strategic Plan. The dual focus of the TMM Program on the TME and metastasis provides a powerful paradigm for interrogating cancer pathology. TMM research, beyond the local environment of the tumor itself, integrates all host mechanisms affecting the tumor, including immune response. TMM themes foster collaboration and communication of members focusing on cancer cell-intrinsic, specific, or local tumor-host interactions with members investigating systemic consequences of cancer, including inflammation, muscle weakness/dysfunction, and cachexia.