The tumor micro-environment is marked by a consistent decline in oxygen levels and nutrients carried by the bloodstream, which significantly impacts the metabolism of specific groups of cells. To overcome tumor-prolonged nutrient deprivation, immune cells populating malignant lesions need to activate alternative pathways.
Tailoring immune responses by manipulating cellular metabolic pathways provide new options for cancer immunotherapy. Our team conducted a Quantitative Mass Spectrometry Imaging (QMSI) data exploration study on stage II colorectal cancer tissues to reveal the role of metabolic signatures in anti-tumor immunity. Based on metabolic clusters found within the TME, predictive metabolic signatures can be identified that infiltrate levels of immune cells, which can be a powerful tool for predicting immunotherapy responses.
Download our application note to learn more: