Many cancers avoid destruction by manipulating the cells that surround them. One important group of these immune cells, called macrophages, can either help destroy tumors or, in some cases, unintentionally support tumor growth. Scientists still do not fully understand how to reprogram macrophages, so they consistently fight cancer effectively, especially in tumors that resist current immunotherapies. 

Dr. Aufiero’s research focuses on a molecule called Dectin-1, a receptor found on macrophages that helps these immune cells recognize threats and activate anti-tumor responses. His earlier work uncovered important mechanisms of immune defense against dangerous fungal infections in cancer patients and challenged long-standing assumptions about how immune cells kill pathogens. 

He is now applying this expertise in innate immunity to cancer research. This project will investigate two distinct forms of Dectin-1 and determine how they influence macrophage behavior inside tumors. Dr. Aufiero will study how these receptors control communication between macrophages and other immune cells and how they affect the immune system’s ability to recognize and attack cancer. 

The goal is to use this knowledge to improve engineered macrophage therapies. Early “CAR-macrophage” treatments have shown promise but have not yet produced strong tumor shrinkage in patients. By designing more effective receptors inspired by Dectin-1 biology, this research could lead to macrophage-based immunotherapies that better recognize, engulf, and stimulate immune attacks against cancers that currently evade treatment. 

Mentor

Eric Dang, PhD

Projects and Grants

Defining and harnessing Dectin-1-mediated signaling in tumor immunity