CCCA | Selected Research Topics and Projects

Within the CCCA clinician scientists work on several research projects with different questions related to the overall CCCA resarch area. A selection of topics and projects covering the assessment of exposure and disposition variables (factors influencing the development and course of cancer) as well as other oncological topics are listed below.

Cellular immune profiling

Prof. Dr. Märkl | PD Dr. Rank

The research focus of this topic is  the characterization of the cellular immune system during different treatment types, especially deep and longitudinal cellular immune monitoring during tumor treatment with classical cytostatics and targeted therapies as well as immune checkpoint inhibitors. In addition, a large study analyses the tumor microenvironment with multiplex staining methods and neural networks.

Research on quality of life

Prof. Dr. Ditsch

The WAVES trial investigates adverse events, late effects and psychological parameters in breast cancer patients.

Genetic predisposition in genetically complex tumors

Prof. Dr. Dr. Frühwald | Prof. Dr. Kuhlen | Prof. Dr. Claus | Prof. Dr. Golas

This research area identifies cancer susceptibility in children, adolescents, and adults, based on whole-exom/genome sequencing of germline/tumor samples including trio analyses (child & parent). It also comprises cancer risk assessment, phenotype and pedigree assessment, individualized therapies & cancer surveillance / prevention, as well as genetic testing and counselling in at-risk relatives.
The Care4TuDoS study identifies patients and families with tumor disposition syndromes (TDS) by increasing awareness for TDS. Integrated molecular testing leads to tailored cancer monitoring and prevention. 

Monitoring of molecular heterogeneity and clonal evolution in genetically complex tumors

Prof. Dr. Claus | Prof. Dr. Trepel | Prof. Dr. Märkl | Dr. Dintner

Liquid biopsy and multi-omics methods drive a comprehesive longitudinal profiling program to determine the environmental impact and predisposition of genetically complex tumors.
The ALPS study (Augsburg Longitudinal Plasma Study) consists of four areas: ALPS palliative, ALPS CUP, ALPS olligometastasis, ALPS MTB and is based on the study NeoRect.

Molecular characterization and classification of rhabdoid tumors and pediatric sarcomas

Prof. Dr. Dr. Frühwald | PD Dr. Johann

Diagnostic classification for CNS-tumors (rhabdoid tumors), introduced into the 2021 WHO classification, leads to practice changing clinical trials. In addition, different omics layers are used for the molecular characterization of rhabdoid tumors and pediatric sarcomas.

Targeted gene therapy

Prof. Dr. Trepel | Prof. Dr. Märkl 

A novel technology has been invented to target adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors to the cell type of interest for gene therapy. This has now been translated into the first clinical trial on this approach, recruiting colorectal and kidney cancer patients.

Molecular characterization of cancer of unknown primary (CUP)

Prof. Dr. Kubuschok

CUP syndrome (= Cancer of Unknown Primary) is defined as a histologically confirmed malignancy with unknown primary tumor after completion of the primary diagnosis. Possibilities for therapy, especially for the prognostically unfavorable group of adeno- and undifferentiated carcinomas of unclear origin, are limited. The aim is therefore to better understand the risk factors and pathobiology of the disease.

Immuno-Oncology - Novel transplant strategies for acute leukemia

Prof. Dr. Schmid | Dr. Hirschbühl

Sequential allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) conditioning regimens for high-risk myeloid malignancies has been established. In addition, strategies on prevention and treatment of relapse after allo-SCT have been developed, in particular the use of donor lymphocyte infusions (DLI). Furthermore, focus is also on (electronic) patient reported outcome (ePRO) of patients treated with cellular therapies.

Precision interventions in early GI cancer

Prof. Dr. Messmann | Dr. Probst | Dr. Ebigbo

Innovative resection method (ESD) was developed for the endoscopic treatment of early GI-neoplasia. In addition, an AI-/deep learning-based method was established for the detection and staging of cancerous esophageal lesions.

Advanced Molecular Imaging and Theranostics

Prof. Dr. Lapa | Dr. Kircher | Dr. rer. nat. Chen

Novel PET tracers addressing different biological properties have been developed.

Imaging and non-invasive diagnostic methods

Prof. Dr. Welzel

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is suitable as a non-invasive diagnostic method for the early detection of basal cell carcinoma. With this method, even very small, clinically barely visible tumors can be reliably detected without biopsy. Line-field confocal OCT is a fusion of optical coherence tomography and confocal laser microscopy. It enables three-dimensional in-vivo microscopy of the skin in real time at high cellular resolution. 

Interventional oncology

Prof. Dr. Kröncke

Radiologists take part in interventional oncology and use minimally invasive techniques in an image-guided manner. These are characterized by precise and local treatment strategies and low side effects. In addition, to interventional oncology and tumor therapy, there are a number of pathologies in which image-guided endovascular interventions already play an essential role in outcomes research.