About Dr Santiago Zelenay

Immunotherapies based on antibodies that target T cell-immune checkpoints have transformed the landscape of cancer treatment across multiple tumour types. These immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies can promote long-lasting responses in both patients with late-stage cancers or in (neo)adjuvant settings. However, most patients derive only transient or no benefit, and many face harmful side effects. Accurate, readily implemented biomarkers that predict response outcome and survival are lacking. Solutions to these clinical problems require improved fundamental understanding of the principles that govern anti-cancer immune responses.

The Cancer Inflammation and Immunity group investigates the signals and pathways that dictate the establishment of tumour inflammatory environments that promote or restrain the anti-tumour function of the immune system. Our research, anchored in basic science, has evolved to span the translational interface to the clinic, leveraging the research ecosystem of Manchester and strong links with clinical colleagues at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust and the CRUK National Biomarker Centre.

By combining fundamental and translational research, we are building upon these findings to: a) deepen our understanding of the mechanisms that regulate the establishment and maintenance of tumour inflammatory environments that either stimulate or hinder immune-mediated tumour control; b) develop approaches to better predict patient outcome and guide treatment selection; and c) identify translatable therapeutic strategies to manipulate intratumoural inflammation and improve the efficacy of immunotherapy and other cancer treatment modalities that rely on the tumour-restraining function of the immune system. Our ultimate goal is to develop effective targeted interventions to disrupt immune suppression, boost tumour immunity and improve cancer treatment responses.