Spatial Profiling of the Tumor Microenvironment

The tumor microenvironment (TME)—the organized area surrounding a tumor that is composed of cancer cells and varieties of immune and other defensive cells—is an exciting locale, where research meets the leading edge of technology. Spatial profiling is beginning to unlock secrets of the TME, holding the promise of more effective cancer immunotherapies. By examining the TME’s diversity of cell types, and expression of RNA and protein markers, researchers are learning more about how the human body fortifies the immune system against the threat of cancer. Here’s a look at how spatial profiling is helping scientists to learn about and bolster these defenses.