dr. Michiel Syssauw (MD)

This research focuses on intestinal type sinonasal adenocarcinoma (ITAC) and its tumor microenvironment (TME), an area that has not been explored in the literature. We aim to characterize the TME by identifying which immune and stromal cells are present, the cytokines involved and how cells communicate to allow the tumor to evade the immune system and thrive. Additionally, we are investigating the process by which chronic wood dust exposure and chronic inflammation drive the transition from normal nasal mucosa to ITAC.
By understanding these cellular and molecular mechanisms, we aim to identify prognostic markers before and after treatment, explore potential non-invasive screening tools and uncover new therapeutic targets. 
Current standard car (surgery followed by radiotherapy) offers limited options, and our work may inform novel immunotherapeutic strategies.
This research is critical because ITACs are local aggressive tumors often detected at advanced stages. By elucidating the TME and early disease processes, our findings could improve early detection, guide less invasive and more effective therapies, and provide a foundation for future studies into novel treatments and screening approaches.
 

• Lab address: Campus UZ Gent, C. Heymanslaan 10, entrance 38 (MRB2), 9000 Gent
• Michiel Syssauw is interested to receive invitations for presentations or talks