Project: Elucidating IFN-γ gene signatures as predictive biomarkers for immunotherapy response in melanoma

With the introduction of immunomodulating antibodies, also known as checkpoint inhibitors, melanoma treatment options have improved significantly. However, their efficacy varies considerably among patients, creating a need for predictive biomarkers to select the most appropriate therapy for each case. Using both bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing (RNAseq) data from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues, patients will be stratified according to their IFN-γ gene expression profile. Two approaches will be used in this study. Firstly, a retrospective evaluation of IFN-γ related genes in melanoma FFPE samples, correlating their expression with treatment outcome: successful (responder) or not (non-responder). Secondly, it is planned to use single-cell RNAseq to understand the significance of specific immune cells with IFN-γ related genes, obtaining additional information on cell dynamics within the tumour microenvironment.

Results

This project will promote a personalised approach to the treatment of melanoma patients in Latvia, and in the future, the diagnostic technology developed as a result could be adapted to tailor therapies for other malignancies as well. Within the framework of international cooperation, this study will not only contribute to the field of tumour immunology but also to the advancement of precision medicine at Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU).