About Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC): HNSCC is the seventh most common form of cancer that affects over 800,000 individuals annually. HNSCC forms in the mouth, nose and throat and requires the removal of the sentential lymph nodes.
Problem Statement: Removal of tumor-draining lymph nodes renders immune checkpoint blockade therapies, such as 𝜶CTLA4, ineffective, thus another standard of care treatment is required.
Project Aim: To rescue immune functionality by designing a decellularized lymph node scaffold as an alternative treatment to rescue the 𝜶CTLA4 response in those with head and neck cancer.
This senior design project aims to rescue the immune response in a murine model of head and neck cancer by transplanting a lymph node, that has been optimized via attachment of chemokines and growth factors, into the regional cervical lymphatic basin, providing a potential solution for HNSCC patients who undergo the current standard of care.
Goals & Constraints
Fabricate a lymph node that would serve as a suitable habitat for immune cells, fostering their growth and function.
Ensure full biocompatibility with the patient's immune system to minimize potential complications.
Integrate into the patient's vasculature, promoting efficient blood flow and communication within the body.
Elicits a minimal immune response, minimizing the potential for adverse reactions or rejection.
Time: Our work was under significant time pressure, requiring efficient planning and execution of experiments.
Access to Materials: We faced restrictions on the availability of necessary materials, which posed logistical challenges.
Safety: Ensuring the safety of all involved was of paramount importance, necessitating strict adherence to protocols.
Access to Lab Space: Limited laboratory space required us to optimize our usage and coordinate effectively.
In Vivo Testing: The constraints related to performing in vivo testing added a layer of complexity to our research process, requiring careful preparation and rigorous experimental design.