Leila Akkari studies how tumor cells and immune cells influence each other. The human immune system should protect us against cancer, but sometimes the opposite occurs. Certain immune cells become corrupted by the tumor: instead of attacking it, they actually help it grow. This treacherous collaboration makes the development of effective treatments even more complex.
Recently, Leila discovered a crucial weakness in the fight against cancer: immune cells which are being ‘bribed’ by tumours to help them grow rather than fight against them. Using advanced techniques, she proved how specific immune cells in brain tumours feed cancer cells with repurposed nerve cell material. This breakthrough opens new avenues for treating brain tumours and liver cancer.
Ammodo presents the Ammodo Science Award for fundamental research biannually to eight outstanding scientists conducting fundamental research. Advisory committees made up of renowned scientists select the laureates, who each receive a cash prize of 350,000 euros for unfettered fundamental research. Ammodo stimulates the development of art, science and architecture.
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Photo Leila Akkari - ©Florian Braakman