XXX FERO Grant – Dr. Patricia Altea

Breast cancer remains the most frequent tumor in women and one of the primary challenges in oncology. Although immunotherapy has represented a major breakthrough, it is only effective in a small group of patients, as many tumors are “cold” and manage to evade the immune system’s action.

With the support of the XXX FERO Grant for Young Researchers, sponsored by the Ramón Areces Foundation, this project seeks to unravel why some tumors are “hot” and respond to immunotherapy, while others remain “cold.” The objective is to identify the mechanisms that determine these differences and develop strategies to “turn on” cold tumors, thereby extending the benefit of these treatments to more patients.

To achieve this, the team led by Dr. Patricia Altea will analyze tumors and metastases using genetic sequencing, artificial intelligence, and advanced microscopy. With this knowledge, they will test new therapeutic combinations in preclinical breast cancer models to reactivate the immune response.

The ultimate goal is to establish an immunological classification of breast cancer that allows for better selection of patients who are candidates for immunotherapy and the design of more personalized and effective treatments, even in metastatic phases.