Although immunotherapy is among the most significant advances in cancer care, it is not effective in all patients. University of Helsinki researchers have provided new insights into why some breast cancer treatments may not be as effective for all patients. The findings provide a new direction for developing precision medicine.
The study found that the spread of breast cancer depends not only on chemical signaling between tumour cells, but also on how stiff or soft the tumour tissue is. In particular, tissue softness — part of the tumour’s mechanical microenvironment — plays a key role in how effectively the body’s immune system can detect and fight cancer cells.
“We have a unique opportunity in Finland to investigate living breast cancer tissue samples taken directly from patients. Unlike research using cell cultures or mouse models, this approach provides a more realistic understanding of cancer behaviour. We have found that a soft microenvironment enables cancer cells to hide from the immune system, which may speed up disease progression,” explains MD-PhD student Aino Peura , of the University of Helsinki.
Looking ahead, these new findings could help doctors more accurately identify patients who are unlikely to benefit from immunotherapy and guide them towards alternative treatments. This approach has the potential to improve outcomes while minimizing unnecessary burden on patients.
This research is the result of a unique collaboration in Finland between the University of Helsinki, HUS Helsinki University Hospital and Kymenlaakso Health and Social Services. It enables the collection of breast cancer tissue for research directly from operating theatres – an approach that is rare worldwide.
“We’ve been approached by many international researchers curious about how such collaboration is possible. It clearly demonstrates the strengths of the Finnish research environment,” notes Professor Juha Klefström , who heads the research group.
Successful research depends on patients agreeing to donate surplus tissue for research purposes.
“Without the contribution of patients, our work simply wouldn’t be possible. Their donations are crucial for developing better therapies in the future,” says Peura with gratitude.
Nature Communications
Observational study
Human tissue samples
Soft matrix promotes immunosuppression in tumor-resident immune cells via COX-FGF2 signaling
27-May-2025