Code
bof/baf/4y/2025/01/067
Duration
01 January 2025 → 31 December 2026
Funding
Regional and community funding: Special Research Fund
Promotor
Research disciplines
-
Medical and health sciences
- Rhinology
Keywords
adenocarcinoma
sinonasal tumors
oncology
Project description
This research project investigates sinonasal intestinal-type adenocarcinoma (ITAC), a relatively uncommon malignancy with a known association with hardwood dust exposure. A key challenge in managing ITAC is that diagnosis frequently occurs at advanced stages due to nonspecific symptomatology and a lack of effective screening modalities. The project's primary objective is to elucidate the role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in ITAC pathogenesis and progression. The TME, a complex milieu surrounding the tumor, comprises various cell types, signaling molecules, and extracellular matrix components. This research will specifically focus on characterizing cytokine profiles and the presence and function of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) within the TME. Furthermore, the project will explore the impact of wood dust exposure on nasal inflammation, a factor hypothesized to contribute to ITAC development. By delineating the interplay between the TME, chronic inflammation, and ITAC, this project aims to identify potential targets for improved screening strategies and novel immunotherapeutic interventions, ultimately with the goal of enhancing patient outcome.