New professor of tumor immunology: fight against pancreatic cancer!

New professor of tumor immunology: fight against pancreatic cancer!

Halle-Wittenberg, Deutschland - Cancer research takes new and exciting turns: From now on, Prof. Dr. Ivonne rule at the medical faculty of the Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg (MLU). Since July 1, 2025, she has taken over the professorship for tumor immunology and brings a breath of fresh air to research on types of cancer, in particular belly pancreatic cancer. Her scientific journey began at the Friedrich Schiller University Jena and led her to MLU via various stations, including the Ludwig Maximilians University in Munich. In her new position, she pursues a clearly defined goal: researching the immune defense against tumors and the development of innovative early detection methods for cancer.

REGEL research focuses on the intrigues of the pancreas cancer, one of the most aggressive types of cancer, the treatment of which is extremely challenging due to the complex interactions between tumor cells and the immune system. Here, the role of epigenetics - how the packaging of the genome influences genetic activity - is becoming increasingly important. "The tumor cells can often camouflage and suppress the immune response, which can significantly weaken the body's defense mechanisms," explains Rule. A central point of its research approach are the epigenetic changes that can lead to cancer -causing reprogramming of the genetic engineering without classic mutations.

A look at the mechanisms

What makes pancreas so insidious? In a recent study, scientists from the University Medical Center Göttingen have discovered new interactions between these cancer cells and the immune system. They opened that tumors often consist of a mixture of subtypes that react differently to treatments. The inflammatory signal protein TNF-α has been identified as a key factor. It influences crucial immune defense processes that could inhibit tumor development. "The combined therapy from immunotherapy and chemotherapy could help improve immune defense and increase the survival rates," said the researchers.

Another project to combat abdominal gland cancer is promoted at the national center for tumor diseases (NCT) in Heidelberg. The development of tumor -specific vaccination viruses is being researched here in order to break through resistance to existing therapies. This innovative approach could increase security and protect healthy body cells without damaging it. The project is currently funded by the Wilhelm Sander Foundation with around 175,000 euros.

early diagnosis and teaching in focus

Rule intends to use epigenetic fingerprints of tumor cells as a marker for early detection. "Current methods are not sensitive enough, but we could make decisive progress here," is usually convinced. In addition to her research, the professor is also an important concern. Interactive formats such as QR code-based quizzes and live votes are on their schedule to actively involve students in the learning process.

With its extensive experience and your network in oncological research, which by supporting Prof. Dr. Heike Kielstein, who is strengthened by the Dean of the MLU, shows rule promising perspectives for future cancer research and diagnostics. In this dynamic and significant industry, it is of central importance to regularly develop new approaches in order to be able to treat patients in the best possible way. It remains exciting to see what the next steps in research around the complex mechanisms of the pancreatic cancer will bring.

The continuing efforts in basic research and clinical practice could soon lead to patient: inside with pancreas cancer can benefit from new and more effective therapy approaches.

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