About Us
We aim to understand how immune responses shape and are shaped by tumor progression and anti-cancer therapy. We aim to exploit these weaknesses to improve patient outcomes by enhancing responses to conventional or immunotherapies.
Mentorship in the DeNardo Lab
The DeNardo Lab is dedicated to training the next generation of scientists and cancer researchers. As such, our group welcomes all individuals, regardless of physical ability, gender, sexual orientation, age, race/ethnicity, religion, or cultural background.
We are a team of scientists with diverse backgrounds and experiences, who have created a nurturing and inclusive environment that fosters a sense of belonging. United by a common goal—to fight cancer through research—we measure our success not only by the discoveries we make but also by the community we build to achieve them. Additionally, we take pride in the career and personal growth of each individual involved in our research as they progress through their training journey within our team.
Highlighted Recent Published Research
Senescence Defines a Distinct Subset of Myofibroblasts That Orchestrates Immunosuppression in Pancreatic Cancer
Stromal reprogramming overcomes resistance to RAS-MAPK inhibition to improve pancreas cancer responses to cytotoxic and immune therapy
Stromal reprogramming overcomes resistance to RAS-MAPK inhibition to improve pancreas cancer responses to cytotoxic and immune therapy
Stromal reprogramming overcomes resistance to RAS-MAPK inhibition to improve pancreas cancer responses to cytotoxic and immune therapy
Stromal reprogramming overcomes resistance to RAS-MAPK inhibition to improve pancreas cancer responses to cytotoxic and immune therapy
Stromal reprogramming overcomes resistance to RAS-MAPK inhibition to improve pancreas cancer responses to cytotoxic and immune therapy
Translation: See NCT05669482
Context-dependent activation of STING-interferon signaling by CD11b agonists enhances anti-tumor immunity
Stromal reprogramming overcomes resistance to RAS-MAPK inhibition to improve pancreas cancer responses to cytotoxic and immune therapy
Stromal Reprogramming by FAK Inhibition Overcomes Radiation Resistance to Allow for Immune Priming and Response to Checkpoint Blockade
Translation: See WUSM SPORE
Stromal Reprogramming by FAK Inhibition Overcomes Radiation Resistance to Allow for Immune Priming and Response to Checkpoint Blockade
Stromal Reprogramming by FAK Inhibition Overcomes Radiation Resistance to Allow for Immune Priming and Response to Checkpoint Blockade
Stromal Reprogramming by FAK Inhibition Overcomes Radiation Resistance to Allow for Immune Priming and Response to Checkpoint Blockade
Translation: See NCT04331041
Fibrosis induced by resident macrophages has divergent roles in pancreas inflammatory injury and PDAC
Stromal Reprogramming by FAK Inhibition Overcomes Radiation Resistance to Allow for Immune Priming and Response to Checkpoint Blockade
Tumor-associated fibrosis impairs immune surveillance and response to immune checkpoint blockade in non–small cell lung cancer
Tumor-associated fibrosis impairs immune surveillance and response to immune checkpoint blockade in non–small cell lung cancer
Stromal Reprogramming by FAK Inhibition Overcomes Radiation Resistance to Allow for Immune Priming and Response to Checkpoint Blockade
Tumor-associated fibrosis impairs immune surveillance and response to immune checkpoint blockade in non–small cell lung cancer
Our Research
Example Project: Dendritic Cells as Regulators of Tumor Immunity
Our lab focuses on understanding the impact of metastatic site-specific factors on immune responses in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Our research has revealed that conventional dendritic cells (cDCs), essential for initiating anti-tumor immunity, exhibit significant dysfunction in both primary and metastatic PDAC, driven by site-specific differences in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Using state-of-the-art genomic, imaging, and functional analyses in human PDAC samples and mouse models, we aim to determine how metastatic sites influence immune priming, systemic immunity, and responses to therapy. By uncovering these mechanisms, our work seeks to improve immunotherapeutic strategies tailored to the unique immune landscapes of metastatic PDAC, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.
Example Project: Fibroblast Heterogeneity (Senescence in the TME)
Our lab focuses on understanding how the tumor microenvironment (TME) shapes immune responses in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Our recent findings highlight the role of senescent cancer-associated fibroblasts (SenCAFs) in promoting tumor progression by altering immune surveillance and extracellular matrix properties. Through cutting-edge biophysical and immunological techniques, we aim to determine how SenCAFs influence tumor immunity, myeloid cell function, and metastatic progression. Ultimately, our research seeks to uncover novel therapeutic strategies that target stromal senescence to enhance anti-tumor immunity and improve patient outcomes.
Example Project: Macrophage Heterogeneity
Our lab is focused on understanding the heterogeneity of macrophages in cancer, particularly how their diverse subtypes respond differently across various tissues and organs. This variability, driven by the tumor microenvironment, significantly impacts the effectiveness of immunotherapy, as macrophages can adopt pro-tumor or anti-tumor functions depending on their location. By leveraging innate immune agonists, we aim to reprogram cancer-associated macrophages to adopt anti-tumor roles, enhancing their ability to support immune responses against tumors. We are particularly interested in how organ-specific responses influence the reprogramming of these macrophages and their interaction with other immune cells. Ultimately, our research seeks to develop targeted strategies that use innate immune agonists to modulate macrophage function, improving cancer immunotherapy outcomes across different cancer types.
WUSM's SPORE in Pancreatic Cancer
Our translational research program possesses both breadth and depth. Our team has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to translate basic science discoveries to therapeutic approaches. Recent examples of this ability include advances in our understanding of the tumor micro-environment (TME) or tumor-mediated immune suppression, which have successfully moved from discovery to preclinical models and ultimately into clinical trials.. The Washington University SPORE in Pancreatic Cancer at Siteman Cancer Center includes patients with all disease stages, and its trials are led by many investigators from multiple disciplines. The clinical program is well established, and our growing reputation has facilitated academic and clinical partnerships, leading to numerous clinical trial opportunities. Since the SPORE’s inception, over 1,254 pancreatic cancer patients have been enrolled in a clinical trial. Thirty eight percent (476 patients) of these patients participated in one or more therapeutic trials).
The Pancreatic Cancer SPORE includes four research programs, an administrative core and two shared resource cores, and research opportunities for collaboration including developmental research and career enhancement programs. Clinical trials are an important and active part of the Pancreatic Cancer SPORE. The long-term goal of the Pancreatic Cancer SPORE is to improve PDAC patient survival. To achieve this goal, our SPORE will collaborate both within Washington University and with external institutions. Our investigators expect no singular approach to solve PDAC and fully commit to supporting young investigators and evaluating new ideas. Our SPORE will provide access to pancreatic cancer-specific resources to further this goal.
For any additional information about the Pancreatic Cancer SPORE, please contact David DeNardo at ddenardo@wustl.edu or Christina Kasting at c.pritchard@wustl.edu.
Involvement in Ongoing Clinical Trials
Immunologic Effects of CDX-301 and CDX-1140 in Resectable Pancreatic Cancer Patients
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy and Focal Adhesion Kinase Inhibitor in Advanced Pancreas Adenocarcinoma
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy and Focal Adhesion Kinase Inhibitor in Advanced Pancreas Adenocarcinoma
Purpose: Evaluating Our Ability to Leverage Dendritic Cell-Targeted Therapy in Pancreatic Cancer Patients
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy and Focal Adhesion Kinase Inhibitor in Advanced Pancreas Adenocarcinoma
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy and Focal Adhesion Kinase Inhibitor in Advanced Pancreas Adenocarcinoma
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy and Focal Adhesion Kinase Inhibitor in Advanced Pancreas Adenocarcinoma
Purpose: Evaluating Co-Targeting
Tumor-Stroma Interactions to Improve Response to Radiation Therapy.
Employing CD11b-Agonists to Render PDAC Responsive to Immunotherapy
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy and Focal Adhesion Kinase Inhibitor in Advanced Pancreas Adenocarcinoma
Employing CD11b-Agonists to Render PDAC Responsive to Immunotherapy
Purpose: To Evaluate Reprogramming Macrophages Through Integrins as a Novel Immunotherapy.
Principal Investigator
David DeNardo, PhD
Graduate Students
Jessica Alexander
Jessica Alexander
Jessica Alexander
PhD Student
MCB Program
alexander.j.m @ wustl.edu
I study Kras and its interaction with the tumor microenviorment. Outside of the lab I enjoy drawing and painting, listening to music, playing the trumpet, thrifting and antiquing, and trying new things!
Jie Chen
Jessica Alexander
Jessica Alexander
PhD Student
MGG Program
chen.jie1 @ wustl.edu
I study how to harness radiation therapy (RT)-induced immunogenic cell death to treat PDAC. Outside of the lab, you’ll find me playing the piano, trying new restaurants, playing video and board games, and spending time with my cat.
Alice Kao
Jessica Alexander
Blake Sells
PhD Student
MGG Program
akao @ wustl.edu
I study immune TMEs across primary and metastatic PDAC, particularly focusing on the macrophage population. Outside of the lab, I like running, hiking and spending time with my cat.
Blake Sells
Jessica Alexander
Blake Sells
MD/PhD Student
Cancer Biology Program
blake.sells @ wustl.edu
I study how cancer-associated fibrosis and cancer-associated fibroblast phenotypes are modulated in the setting of immunotherapy and the resulting impact this remodeling has in the creation of an effective anti-tumor immune response. Outside of lab, I love to read, try new restaurants, and learn new sports.
Dev Sen
Alyssa Weinstein
Maddie Turner
PhD Student
MCBProgram
d.sen @ wustl.edu
I am studying how stromal senescence and metabolic changes influence anti-tumor immune responses and metastasis. Outside of the lab, I enjoy biking, listening to music, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.
Maddie Turner
Alyssa Weinstein
Maddie Turner
MD/PhD Student
Cancer Biology Program
m.c.turner @ wustl.edu
I am studying how to improve efficacy of radiation therapy in PDAC by combining radiation with other targeted therapies. In my free time I enjoy rock climbing, running in Forest Park, cooking/baking, playing board games, and going to concerts/live music!
Alyssa Weinstein
Alyssa Weinstein
Alyssa Weinstein
PhD Student
Cancer Biology Program
agweinstein @ wustl.edu
I study dendritic cell differences at the primary and metastatic sites of PDAC. Outside of the lab, you will find me at the CrossFit gym, running around Forest Park, cooking or baking, hiking with my dog, or cuddling on the couch with my cat!
Faculty & Staff
Brett Knolhoff
Liang-I Kang, MD, PhD
Liang-I Kang, MD, PhD
Lab Manager
bknolhoff @ wustl.edu
I am the lifeblood of this lab, managing the mouse colony as well as everyday operations large and small. Outside of the lab, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two kids. I am an avid sports fan, Go UK Wildcats! In my free time I enjoy playing golf with the guys.
Liang-I Kang, MD, PhD
Liang-I Kang, MD, PhD
Liang-I Kang, MD, PhD
Assistant Professor of Pathology & Immunology
kangl @ wustl.edu
I am a board-certified anatomic pathologist. In the DeNardo Lab, I am studying the tumor microenvironment of liver metastases in pancreaticcancer. Outside of lab, I enjoy collecting recipes, reading cookbooks and baking blogs/newsletters, and baking.
Usman Panni, MD
Liang-I Kang, MD, PhD
Usman Panni, MD
Surgical Oncology Resident
usmanypanni @ wustl.edu
Utilizing novel immunotherapeutic strategies to modulate tumor microenvironment in lung cancer.
Faiz Ahmad, PhD
Liang-I Kang, MD, PhD
Usman Panni, MD
Staff Scientist
afaiz @ wustl.edu
I conduct clinical biopsies for research, train scientists, design experiments, and analyze data across various projects and collaborations. Outside the lab, I’m passionate about music, books, and nature
Emily Butka, PhD
Emily Butka, PhD
Emily Butka, PhD
Bioinformaticist
ebutka @ wustl.edu
I lead bioinformatics, data analysis and data management across trainees and projects. In my free time I serve as a bench scientist in my kitchen, trying and testing new and favorite recipes.
Olivia Dres
Emily Butka, PhD
Emily Butka, PhD
Research Technician
d.olivia @ wustl.edu
To some, I am the mIHC expert; to others, I’m Olivia. I joined the DeNar-Dogs as an American Cancer Society DiCR Intern nearly three years ago and now work full-time. Currently, I work on a myriad of projects, helping others in lab, as well as independent projects. I am currently studying for th
Research Technician
d.olivia @ wustl.edu
To some, I am the mIHC expert; to others, I’m Olivia. I joined the DeNar-Dogs as an American Cancer Society DiCR Intern nearly three years ago and now work full-time. Currently, I work on a myriad of projects, helping others in lab, as well as independent projects. I am currently studying for the MCAT, as I want to pursue an MD-PhD, but when I have free time, I enjoyed reading, backpacking, and traveling.
Claire Ku
Emily Butka, PhD
Sarah Baek
Undergraduate Student
Biology and Anthropology: Global Health and Environment
claireku @ wustl.edu
I am an undergraduate student at WashU and aspiring future physician. I joined the lab through the American Cancer Society DiCR Program and am currently studying immune profiles of the PDAC TME with my bench mentor, Maddie. In my spare time, I
Undergraduate Student
Biology and Anthropology: Global Health and Environment
claireku @ wustl.edu
I am an undergraduate student at WashU and aspiring future physician. I joined the lab through the American Cancer Society DiCR Program and am currently studying immune profiles of the PDAC TME with my bench mentor, Maddie. In my spare time, I love to explore the outdoors, play the piano, and dance.
Sarah Baek
Emily Butka, PhD
Sarah Baek
Undergraduate Student
Biology and Psychological & Brain Sciences
baek.s.s @ wustl.edu
I'm a current undergraduate student at Washington University working part-time to support the gavage team. In my free time, I love drawing, playing the saxophone, and trying new video games.
Contact Us
Please reach out to collaborate or join our team!
The DeNardo Lab is affiliated with the Division of Molecular Oncology at Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine. Prospective trainees are invited to email David DeNardo with their CV. @...ddenardo@wustl.edu
DeNardo Lab @ WUSM
660 S Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO, USA
