Researchers at VIB, VUB, and an international network of collaborators have created the most comprehensive single-cell atlas of tumor-associated dendritic cells to date. By integrating data from 14 mouse tumor models and 10 human cancer types, this study provides a detailed cross-species view of how these important immune cells are organized and altered in cancer. This work, which appeared in nature communications, It can guide the development of next-generation treatments.
Current status of diverse and conserved immunity
Using single-cell RNA-sequencing, the research team identified more than 30 different dendritic cell subsets and functional states within tumors. These include well-established populations such as cDC1 and cDC2 and emerging subsets such as DC3 and multiple intermediate or activated states. Many of these populations are conserved between mice and humans, reinforcing their relevance in preclinical models.
“This atlas provides an unprecedented overview of dendritic cell diversity across different cancers,” said lead author Professor Damya Laoui (VIB-VUB Center for Inflammation Research). “We can now clearly see how many different states these cells can take on, and how similar they are between mouse models and patients.”
Tumors reshape dendritic cell function
The study also revealed that dendritic cells are dynamically reprogrammed as tumors progress. Over time, they acquire a stronger inflammatory profile. Importantly, these changes are not limited to the tumor itself. Dendritic cells in the lymph nodes are also affected.
We were surprised to see how extensively tumors affect the immune system. Dendritic cell reprogramming extends beyond the tumor microenvironment, suggesting systemic effects. ”
Aarushi Caro (VIB-VUB), PhD student, co-first author
Resources for future treatments
By linking specific dendritic cell subsets to patient survival, this atlas highlights new opportunities for biomarker discovery and immunotherapy development. The dataset is publicly available through an interactive platform, allowing researchers around the world to explore and build on the findings.
“Understanding which states of dendritic cells support or inhibit anti-tumor immunity opens new doors to treatment,” said co-first author Daliya Kancheva, Ph.D. (VIB-VUB). “This resource will help guide the design of next-generation immunotherapies that more precisely target the immune system.”
funding
This research was financially supported by the FWO (Flanders Research Foundation) and the Flemish Government.
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Reference magazines:
Dear AA others. (2026). Pan-cancer single-cell atlas of mouse and human tumor-associated dendritic cells. nature communications. DOI: 10.1038/s41467-026-73721-w. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-73721-w
