Lucy Britto
BME PhD Proposal Presentation

Date: 2025-06-10
Time: 3:00 pm
Location / Meeting Link: Suddath Room 1128 (IBB): https://gatech.zoom.us/j/96440321911

Committee Members:
Ankur Singh, PhD (Advisor); Andrés J. García, PhD; Marian Ackun-Farmmer, PhD; Felipe Quiroz, PhD; Jean L. Koff, MD


Title: Lymphoma Organoids to Investigate Immune Synapse Architecture and Rescue Targeted Therapy Responses

Abstract:
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and shows a wide range of treatment outcomes. While some patients respond well to initial therapies, approximately 40% relapse and often face poor prognoses. DLBCL likely originates from mature B cells undergoing intense changes in the lymph nodes, where they rely on survival signals from helper T cells during their development. Although previous research has primarily focused on genetic mutations and disruptions within lymphoma cells, the role of the surrounding lymphoid tumor microenvironment (Ly-TME) in disease progression and treatment resistance remains underexplored. In particular, signaling between B cells and helper T cells appears to reduce the effectiveness of targeted therapies that inhibit the B cell receptor (BCR) pathway, a key driver of tumor growth. My doctoral research combines advanced 3D modeling, bioengineered lymphoma organoids, and imaging approaches to replicate and investigate how interactions between lymphoma cells and T cells contribute to cancer progression. The studies reveal that structural changes in the tumor environment, immune cell interactions, and epigenetic regulation play crucial roles in therapy resistance. By dissecting these mechanisms, this research aims to guide the development of more effective, targeted treatment strategies for patients with high-risk DLBCL