Many novel anti-tumor or anti-lymphoma treatments, especially targeted therapies, show promising anti-tumor efficacy, but also modulate immune cells, e.g. by off-target effects. For example, we could previously show that the JAK/STAT inhibitor ruxolitinib has highly suppressive effects on dendritic cells and T cells in mice and humans. These – sometimes unintended – side effects of tyrosine kinase inhibitors harbor the potential to modulate tumor responses and could counteract the actual anti-tumor effect. 

In the era of precision medicine, a high need for personalized treatment strategies has evolved. Understanding molecular and cellular regulatory mechanisms of novel anti-tumor compounds could aid in providing better-suited treatment (combinations) to patients. 

Our research focusses on investigating the effects of novel anti-tumor compounds on primary human immune cells from healthy individuals and patients. We are especially interested in new treatments against hematologic malignancies, such as leukemia and lymphoma. We employ a wide range of techniques in order to investigate immune cell composition, activation, differentiation and function both in vivo and in vitro.