Proof of concept: immunotherapy in glioblastoma multiforme.

The goal of my doctoral thesis is to help develop new therapeutic strategies in the field of neuro-oncology. Most of the central nervous system tumors, especially glioblastomas, are aggressive tumors with a high rate of recurrence. The therapeutic options at present are rather scarce. By using tumor models and biomarkers, i aim to find a way to boost the immune system to create an anti-tumor effect. Within the field of functional diagnostics, we will be using multiplex technology and flow cytometry to translate ex vivo treatments into the in vivo setting. It would be ideal to reach a fase 0 project via 'proof of concept' and to test out a new drug first in human. There will be close cooperation with data scientists to present the clinical findings as clear as possible. The domain of medical oncology evolves very quickly and i hope to contribute with my thesis to the further developments. Underpinning a new line of thinking would certainly be great, and who knows, there may be a direct impact in clinical practice as icing on the cake.