Interaction of Tumour Microenvironment with NK Cell in Ovarian Cancer

About the Project

Project Details:

One of the focuses in our research group is on immune modulation of Natural Killer (NK) cell in various cancers. We have demonstrated that NK cells in patients with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (B-CLL) have reduced expression of activating receptors (including NKG2D and DNAM-2) and increased expression of inhibitory receptors (PD-1), which is associated with reduced cytotoxicity (HM Parry et al Oncotarget, 2016, M Farhat et al Leukemia, 2024). In Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), our study has revealed the high production of immunoregulatory cytokine IL-10 from NK cells. Importantly, NK cells show dysfunctional phenotype in tumour tissue that was recapitulated in primary NK cells following co-culture with PDAC organoids (F Marcon et al Oncoimmunology, 2020). In Ovarian cancer, our data showed that NK cell also demonstrated an exhausted phenotype in the tumour tissue. Interestingly, high level expression of PVR (DNAM-1 ligand) was identified and it plays an critical role in NK cell mediated lysis of primary tumour cells (R Pounds et al Frontiers in immunology, 2025).

In the tumour microenvironment (TME), NK cell can exhibit both antitumor and tumour-promoting functions. NK cells activity can be significantly impaired within the TME. This project aims to study the interaction of NK cells with TME of Ovarian Cancer. This will be studied using tumour cell lines model and organoids from primary tumour samples. We will then seek to build on observations to work towards development of novel therapeutic approaches towards re-engaging NK cell lysis of Ovarian tumour cells.

Person Specification

We are seeking talented and motivated students who share our passion for controlling cancer. The West Midlands is a diverse community and we seek to reflect this in our research team. Consideration of equality, diversity and inclusion is central in our ambition.

Applicants should have a strong background in biomedical research, and ideally a background in immunology or cancer research. They should have a commitment to research in this area and hold or realistically expect to obtain at least an Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a relevant subject. A masters degree in a relevant subject area is desirable.

How to apply

Informal enquiries should be directed to Dr Jianmin Zuo(j.zuo@bham.ac.uk)

Applications should be directed to Dr Jianmin Zuo (j.zuo@bham.ac.uk). To apply, please send:

• A detailed CV, including your nationality and country of birth;
• Names and addresses of two referees;
• A covering letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities;
• Copies of your degree certificates with transcripts;
• Evidence of your proficiency in the English language, if applicable.

Funding Notes

Self-funded students only