Immuno-Oncology and Microbiome

Mission

The scientific mission of the Immuno-Oncology and Microbiome (IOM) research program at the University of Florida Health Cancer Institute is to improve cancer outcomes through innovative therapeutic research on microbiome-immunotherapy interactions influencing epithelial and immune cell function, engaging clinicians and basic scientists to partner on innovative investigator-initiated trials (IITs).

The program develops and translates immunotherapy modalities, such as RNA-based vaccines, adoptive cellular therapies, genetically modified T cells and microbiome-based therapy, into first-in-human studies. The Comparative Oncology Initiative has allowed IOM investigators to validate new technologies in pet dog trials while a cadre of clinical trialists move these and other UF findings into human application.

Through the I2T3, structured processes have been developed for translation of basic concepts into human studies. IOM thus advances preclinical through clinical evaluation of novel patient-specific therapies to address priority cancers of the catchment area, engaging the Office of Community Outreach and Engagement and members of the Community Advisory Board in the review and design of clinical trials.

Aims

Aim 1: Elucidate Principles of Cancer Immunobiology Relevant to Developing or Improving Immuno-Oncology Therapeutics

• Identify and validate immunotherapeutic targets 
• Define mechanisms of immune/stem/tumor cell engagement within the microenvironment
• Develop therapeutic modalities to augment anti-tumor immunity

Aim 2: Define Microbiome Contribution to Cancer Development, Therapeutics and Immunoactivity

• Investigate how microbiome-associated metabolites impact anti-tumor immunity
• Explore how the microbiome modulates carcinogenesis
• Study how microorganisms affect therapeutic response through drug metabolism

Aim 3: Translate Scientific Discoveries into Early-Phase Clinical Trials

Engaging members in all four UF Health Cancer Institute programs through:

• Disease group mini-retreats
• Program meetings
• The IIT Think Tank (i2T3)

Program Co-leaders

Department: MD-GASTROENTEROLOGY

Christian Jobin Ph.D.

UFHCC Co-leader Immuno-Oncology and Microbiome program, UF Health Cancer Center, Gatorade Trust and Distinguished Professor of Medicine, University of Florida

Phone: (352) 294-5148

Email: cjobin@ufl.edu

Department: MD-NEUROLOGICAL SURGERY

Elias Sayour MD, PhD

Stop Children's Cancer/Bonnie R. Freeman Professor for Pediatric Oncology Research; Assistant Dean

Phone: (352) 273-9000

Email: elias.sayour@neurosurgery.ufl.edu

Program Members

To request an update, please email ResearchDevelopment@cancer.ufl.edu.