It has long been suspected that endothelial cells play a key role in determining how the body’s immune system responds to tumors. Researchers at the DKFZ and the Medical Faculty Mannheim of Heidelberg University have now identified, in mouse studies, a specialized population of blood vessel lining endothelial cells that enable an effective immune defense against cancer metastases in the liver.

EMUNO Therapeutics: the innate immune system as a new approach to cancer treatment - 29/07/2026

Activation of macrophages: a key factor in the fight against colorectal cancer

The mobilisation of the body’s own immune system through immune checkpoint inhibitors has revolutionised cancer therapy. However, the majority of solid tumours are able to evade immune surveillance. These so-called 'cold' tumours contain too few immune cells to respond effectively to current immunotherapies. This is where the Freiburg-based biotech start-up EMUNO Therapeutics GmbH comes in.

Why do cancers develop differently in different people—even when they are exposed to the same risk factors? An international research group, including the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), has now demonstrated in mice that an organism’s genetic makeup significantly influences the course of cancer development.