Deciphering the Tumor Microenvironment Mechanisms Driving Tissue-Resident vs. Circulating CD8 T Cell Dysfunction and Antitumor Responses in Human Cancer

CD8+ T cells take on diverse functional states within the tumor microenvironment (TME), often limiting their efficacy in fighting cancer. Dr. Metoikidou is using her EACR-MARK Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship to investigate how precursor origins shape the functional, metabolic, and phenotypic profiles of these cells. By identifying local TME signals—like cytokines or metabolites—that influence these states, and assessing their potential to be reinvigorated by immunotherapy, this research aims to uncover novel strategies to enhance anti-tumor immune responses.