Advancing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation and Cancer Immunotherapy
The Waller Lab focuses on advancing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) to improve outcomes for patients with hematologic malignancies and related disorders. We are also investigating new targets for cancer immunotherapy.
The lab’s research encompasses:
Immune Modulation in Transplantation
Investigating how donor dendritic cell subsets influence immune reconstitution, graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), and graft-versus-leukemia (GvL) responses. We have demonstrated that donor bone marrow-derived plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) can enhance survival and reduce GvHD in MHC-mismatched mouse models, findings that are supported by data from clinical studies in human patients.
Pharmacological Enhancement of Anti-Tumor Immunity
Exploring the use of novel agents like vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) antagonists to boost T-cell-mediated anti-tumor activity. VIP antagonists have shown promise in preclinical models by increasing antigen-specific T-cells and decreasing immune checkpoint expression. We are also investigating the influence of the gut microbiome on anti-tumor immunity and how this may impact immunotherapy strategies.
Enhancing CAR-T Cell Therapy
Addressing challenges in expanding naïve T-cells from heavily pretreated patients, such as those with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), to improve the efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapies. The lab is investigating the use of drugs like idelalisib and VIP antagonists to rejuvenate T-cell subsets for adoptive transfer.
Combining preclinical models with translational and clinical research studies, the Waller Lab aims to advance curative therapies for cancer patients.