Characterising Tumour Intrinsic And Microenvironmental Determinants Of Melanoma Progression Within Lymph Nodes

Melanoma, a serious skin cancer, often spreads to lymph nodes (LNs). LNs are responsible for generating an anti-tumour response, but how metastasis to the LN affects the immune system remains unclear. This study examined changes in immune cells within melanoma-invaded LNs from patients and developed a model for this disease in mice. Anti-tumour immune cells were found at the tumour border in patient LNs, but did not influence survival. In mice, two new melanoma cell lines with different genetic features were developed. Both lines spread to lymph nodes and triggered immune responses. These findings could guide future immunotherapy development.