Project Summary
In P19 we plan to evaluate the role of oncogenic Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK) signalling as a common and targetable driver of immune escape in Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Using Imaging Mass Cytometry and FAK gain and loss of-function models we will determine the key immune effector components affected by FAK-mediated immune escape (Aim 1). Aim 2 is dedicated to the identification of the driving pathways and mediators of this immune escape. In Aim 3 we will assess the therapeutic potential of targeting FAK for overcoming resistance to immune checkpoint inhibition in HCC.
