The Tumor Microenvironment: Cross-talk between cancer cells and non-cancer cells

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Aim of this project is to contribute to a better understanding of the cross-talk between cancer cells and non-cancer cells within the tumor tissue. We hypothesize that these interactions are required to accomplish tumor hallmarks including immune evasion, growth factor independence/apoptosis resistance, angiogenesis and motility. The dialogue between the genetically altered malignant cells and the supporting cells of the microenvironment are critical to understanding cancer pathogenesis and - on the long run - to the development of novel, effective therapies.Specifically, the impact of the interaction of cancer cells with non-malignant cells on the phenotype and the functions of the interacting cells will be addressed. The role of cell-cell communication for the differentiation of the tumor towards activation of programs that allow the achievements of classical and emerging cancer cell hallmarks (such as the induction of immune evasion or even tumor-supportive functions of immune cells) will be investigated. To tackle these questions including the composition, structure and function of the tumor microenvironment several in vitro approaches and animal models are used, which requires an highly interdisciplinary approach covering the medical and natural sciences. Within this proposal we plan to support a close collaboration for basic and translational orientated researchers within this research area especially through the allocation of a structured educational program. The measurements include technical trainings and soft skill workshops, and provide a platform to facilitate the exchange of material and techniques between the projects to improve research projects directly. Selected projects and their students may be supported with travel grants to national/international meetings or conferences. A scholarship opportunity should allow internships abroad e.g. to learn novel techniques that foster the progress of a doctoral thesis. We expect synergisms not only supporting competitive high quality PhD and MD dissertations but also facilitating the interactions between basic scientists and clinicians, resulting in an improved biological understanding of the tumor microenvironment.