Axis 2: Integrated Tumour-Host Ecosystems

This Axis takes a holistic approach to understanding cancer as a systemic disease by deciphering physiological networks of tumour-host interactions that are vital to cancer development, progression, and response to therapy. Within the increasingly broad context of the tumour-host ecosystem, GCI investigators focus on key interactions involving the immune system, adipose tissue, and tumour cells across scales – from local interactions in the tumour microenvironment to systems-level crosstalk. These studies include mechanistic investigation of how important host cell types develop and function in the context of cancer, as well as the roles of inflammatory mediators, the microbiome, metabolic networks, and other mechanisms of intercellular interaction and communication. Through deepening our understanding of these networks and interactions, this Axis aims to develop the next generation of therapeutic strategies based on disrupting tumour-host ecosystems and harnessing anti-tumour immunity.

Axis lead: Daniela Quail