Hunter Jonus, PhD

Neuroblastoma, the most common extracranial solid tumor in children, presents a formidable challenge in pediatric oncology. Approximately half of neuroblastoma patients are diagnosed with high-risk disease, which has an especially aggressive 50% survival rate, illustrating that the urgency for innovative treatment approaches is paramount.

Dr. Jonus is leading groundbreaking research in combating this aggressive disease. Her team's research focuses on developing novel treatment options for patients suffering from high-risk neuroblastoma utilizing cellular immunotherapy. Her innovative approach incorporates a unique T cell subset known as gamma delta (γδ) T cells, which can be isolated from healthy donors, expanded ex vivo, and infused into patients to target and eliminate tumors, including neuroblastoma.

Dr. Jonus seeks to enhance the effectiveness of γδ T cell therapy by engineering these cells to better recognize and infiltrate solid tumors while extending their longevity within the body. By incorporating chimeric antigen receptors and cytokine secretion pathways, Dr. Jonus aims to optimize γδ T cell function and bolster their anti-tumor activity.