We utilize in situ digital spatial profiling, coupled with single-cell technologies, to probe the cell-intrinsic and microenvironmental features underlying pancreatic neoplasia.

Examples of completed projects include the spatial characterization of the epithelial and immune compartments underlying IPMN progression to invasive carcinoma. The goal of these efforts is to a) identify biomarkers that can distinguish low-risk IPMNs from high-risk IPMNs, and b) to develop interception strategies to prevent IPMN progression to invasive cancer.

We are currently utilizing these same approaches to understand the spatial organization of very early hepatic metastases, and how these lesions progress and can ultimately be targeted to improve outcomes.

Representative Publications:

Eckhoff AM, Fletcher AA, Landa K, Iyer M, Nussbaum DP, Shi C, Nair SK, Allen PJ. Multidimensional Immunophenotyping of Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms Reveals Novel T Cell and Macrophage Signature. Ann Surg Oncol. 2022;29(12):7781-7788. [Pubmed]

Eckhoff A, Allen PJ. ASO Author Reflections: Spatial Immunophenotyping of Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm. Ann Surg Oncol. 2022;29(12):7789-7790. [Pubmed]

Iyer MK, Shi C, Eckhoff AM, Fletcher A, Nussbaum DP, Allen PJ. Spatial Transcriptome Profiling of Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms Establishes a Molecular Framework for Risk Stratification. bioRxiv 2022.09.08.507112. [bioRxiv]