At the Department of Applied Tumor Biology (ATB), we investigate how cancer evolves and interacts with its host, and use this knowledge to develop new strategies for cancer detection, treatment and prevention.

Our research bridges molecular tumor biology, immunology, pathology and computational science. We focus particularly on high-risk settings in which cancer development can be identified and studied before invasive disease occurs, creating unique opportunities for early detection and preventive intervention.

Two complementary models are at the heart of our research: DNA mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency and microsatellite instability (MSI), including Lynch syndrome, and HPV-driven carcinogenesis. While biologically distinct, both provide unique opportunities to study the transition from cancer risk through early molecular and precancerous changes to invasive disease and to develop strategies for early detection, cancer interception and prevention.