Recent publications

Study reveals immune landscape variations in breast cancer, paving the way for tailored immunotherapies 

Groundbreaking research by CCRI members and Department of Cell and Molecular Biology instructors Dr. Amod Sharma, Dr. Sarabjeet Kour Sudan and Dr. Kunwar Vikramdeo and Dr. Ajay Singh, CCRI associate director of basic and translational research, and Dr. Seema Singh, CCRI associate director of education and training, published in NPJ Breast Cancer, has uncovered important race- and subtype-specific immune variations in breast cancer. 

Immune cells play a crucial role in the tumor microenvironment, influencing tumor growth, immune evasion, and treatment response. The study revealed significant differences in immune cell composition between TNBC and non-TNBC subtypes. Although TNBC tumors exhibit higher overall immune cell infiltration, they are characterized by a more immunosuppressive environment, with an increased presence of B cells and regulatory T cells. The research team also observed race-related differences in the levels of key immune cell types, which may help explain differences in outcomes.  

The discovery of race- and subtype-specific immune variations in breast cancer is a crucial step toward personalized medicine. The study suggests that tailored immunotherapies could be developed to address the unique immune profiles of different breast cancer subtypes and racial groups. By considering these variations, clinicians may be able to better predict treatment responses and improve outcomes for both Black and white breast cancer patients. 

Study examines polymeric biomaterials for 3D cell culture  

Research by graduate assistant Sheetal Chowdhury and Dr. Amol Janorkar, chair of the Department of Biomedical Materials Science, examining the structure–property relationships of polymeric biomaterials, was published in the journal Bioengineering. 

The study focuses on polymers commonly used to culture three-dimensional multicellular spheroids and the methodologies to generate such cultures. By analyzing how material properties influence spheroid formation and stability, the research demonstrates how advanced in vitro culture models can better mimic in vivo tissue environments. These models support fundamental research in cancer biology as well as the engineering of functional tissues in vitro. 

The study also highlights key limitations of existing polymeric materials and culture techniques. Existing materials and culture systems have not been evaluated for long-term use and often produce spheroids that are easily lost during routine cell culture. This makes it challenging to maintain stable cultures, particularly adipocyte spheroids, for more than three weeks. The authors conclude that further research is needed to develop polymer coatings and biomaterial platforms that enhance cell attachment, improve spheroid retention, and support long-term three-dimensional cell culture.