GR: Oncosuppressor in KRAS driven lung cancer

Lung cancer is a devastating disease and is the leading cause of most tumor-associated deaths. At the genetic level, lung tumors are classified based on different mutations, and specific genetic changes determine the chosen treatment methods for affected patients. The most commonly mutated gene in lung cancer is KRAS, and there is still no well-established targeted treatment method for this gene. The majority of affected patients receive a type of immunotherapy, where efforts are made to support the body`s own immune cells in fighting the tumor. However, various factors can significantly influence the success of such therapy. Additionally, many patients are prescribed synthetic glucocorticoids for symptom management, which are structurally derived from a natural stress hormone, cortisol. Interestingly, relatively little is known about the direct effects of these hormones on lung cancer cells and thus the impact of different treatment methods. The aim of this project is to close this gap and thereby achieve improvements in the care of lung cancer patients.