Importance of Spatial Distribution Insight from Clinical Biopsies

Description Current immuno-oncology research is revealing diagnostic, prognostic and predictive cell states and identities with implications for drug and diagnostic development as well as diagnostic testing. However, it is challenged in that only a minority of patients respond. This is especially prevalent using therapies that rely on immune activation such as checkpoint inhibitors, due to the complex and heterogeneous immune escape mechanisms which can develop in each patient. Therefore, the development of robust biomarkers, enabling rational patient selection and the design of precise combination therapies, is key for the continued success and improvement afforded by this valuable treatment. The need for spatial distribution in clinical biopsies is now more than ever. Today, spatial biology is finally giving researchers much needed contextual information resolving cells and biomarkers. It provides a comprehensive study of cellular composition, cellular functions and cell-cell interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Watch this to learn how spatial biology can provide insights into the spatial distribution and cellular interactions in clinical tumor biopsies.