Schwertfeger Lab

Dr. Schwertfeger is a an Associate Professor in the Department of Lab Medicine and Pathology. She is a member of the Masonic Cancer Center, the Center for Immunogy, and the Division of Molecular Pathology and Genomics. Her main research effort is focused on the tumor microenvironment, specifically focusing on how breast cancers cells interact with the extracellular matrix and with cells in the stroma, particularly with immune cells. The cell of particular interest to her group is the macrophage, a specialized innate immune system cell. Macrophages reside within tissues and contribute to homeostasis and tissue repair. Monocytes/macrophages can also be recruited from the bloodstream as part of an immune response. Macrophages are recruited by tumors through signaling mechanisms and commandeered to assist in tumor expansion and metastasis. More recent studies have found that macrophages within the tumor microenvironment are more heterogeneous than previously appreciated. have long been known to be associated with tumors and contribute to tumor growth and progression. Understanding what drives macrophage heterogeneity and the impact of distinct macrophage populations within the tumor microenvironment will ultimately lead to the development of approaches that tip the balance towards anti-tumor macrophage function, leading to engagement of anti-tumor immune responses and effective tumor control.