Tumor Immune Microenvironment Involvement in Colorectal Cancer Chemoresistance Mechanisms

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide and its progression-free survival is still low, around 10 months. Thirthy to 50% of patients do not respond to chemotherapy upon initiation of treatment, suggesting that early development of chemoresistance mechanisms remains a major challenge. In order to better characterize these mechanisms, we aim to develop a model of tumoroids derived from patients with a colorectal tumors prior to any systemic anti cancer treatment. This project will both allow us to study the role of the immunological microenvironment in chemoresistance and identify new predictive markers of tumor response. It will then serve to develop innovative personalized medicine strategies by targeting the newly identified mechanisms. This study should in fine help to improve the cancer patient’s care.