We are studying how the commensal microbes residing in our body influence immunity against cancer
Ultimately, we believe that understanding the interaction between the host immune system and the microbiome can lead to the discovery of novel therapeutic targetsWelcome to the Park Laboratory at the University of Chicago
Our research group primarily investigates the role of microbiome in modulating cancer immunity. We study mechanisms by which the gut microbes regulate the critical immune components in the Tumor Microenvironment (TME). By integrating gnotobiotic mouse models with expertise in fundamental immunology and leveraging the power of metabolomics, we aims to uncover the mechanisms by which commensal microbes and their metabolites modulate anti-tumor immunity, within the framework of cancer immunotherapy. We aim to 1) elucidate how gut microbes shape the immune landscape in the TME 2) identify gut microbial metabolites and signaling mediators of gut microbe-dependent anti-tumor immunity 3) determine the role of gut microbial immune modulation in regulating the response to immunotherapy. My research will provide critical insights into mechanisms by which the gut microbiota regulates anti-tumor immunity, and new therapeutic strategies for patients who do not respond to PD-1 pathway blockade. Ultimately, our goal is to develop novel and innovative therapeutic tools and strategies to enhance the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapies.
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Are you interested in curing cancer by harnessing microbes and the power of our immune system? Please, join us!
Email To: joonseokpark@uchicago.edu
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