Targeted therapies and treatment monitoring in FET sarcomas

Our overall objective is to improve treatments and the quality of life for patients suffering from the more than 25 forms of sarcomas that are characterized by FET (FUS, EWSR1, TAF15) fusion oncogenes (FET sarcomas).

To accomplish this, we will (i) identify and target FET sarcoma-specific features associated with therapy resistance, and (ii) minimize over- and undertreatment by monitoring treatment efficacy using blood plasma. This project builds on detailed knowledge about FET fusion oncoproteins and tumor cell heterogeneity.

To accomplish our aims, we have developed innovative technologies to analyze single cells and individual molecules in clinically relevant material.

Here, we will define how FET fusion oncoproteins interact with the SWI/SNF complexes in relation to JAK-STAT signaling that controls therapy resistance. Currently, it is challenging to monitor treatment efficacy and at an early stage detect tumor relapse in FET sarcomas. Therefore, we will apply circulating tumor-DNA analysis using blood plasma to address these issues.

The research team possesses all required expertise, clinical material and infrastructure to realize the project. In the short-term perspective we expect to increase our molecular understanding of FET sarcoma biology. Ultimately, targeting FET sarcoma-specific features opens up for new targeted treatments.

Minimally invasive blood plasma analysis will also allow for treatment monitoring in close to real-time, assisting in clinical decisions.