Immune cells, such as T cells, are able to combat infections and cancer. This ability is critical for the success of cancer immunotherapy. However, an immune-dysfunction occurs in a large proportion of patients, leading to tumor progression; the mechanisms of this phenomenon are not sufficiently explored to date. Intact cellular metabolism is crucial for an effective immune response. In this project, we will study tumor infiltrating T cells and test if a T cell metabolic dysfunction contributes to impaired anti-tumor immunity. Specifically, we will assess the capacity of these cells to take up and to metabolize glucose and fatty acids. Data obtained in this project will help to understand the underlying process of immune dysfunction in cancer and might provide novel targets for tumor immune therapy improvement.

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