Give feedback on a study into immune responses and breast cancer
Share your feedback on research into immune responses to cancer and help researchers make sure that their research is accessible and beneficial for people affected by breast cancer.
What’s the project about?
There are many things that can change how effective breast cancer treatment is. One factor that can affect it is how our immune system responds to cancer. A type of white blood cell called macrophage is an important part of our immune system. They identify and remove dying cells so that new ones can grow. This process is called efferocytosis.
However, in cancer, once the macrophages have removed dying cells, they also supress the immune system in that area, meaning that the body is less able to fight against tumour.
Researchers are designing a study to investigate how this process affects tumour growth, and how it influences the effectiveness of treatment. They aim to understand how the immune system fights cancer, and how treatment can be made more effective.
They’re looking for people to give them feedback on the lay summary of their research to make sure it’s easily understood.
Who’s organising it?
Name of project lead: Ioannis Kourtzelis
Job title: Research group leader and lecturer in immunology
Organisation: University of York
Email address: ioannis.kourtzelis@york.ac.uk
Who can take part?
Anyone who’s had a personal diagnosis of breast cancer can take part.
This includes
- DCIS
- Primary breast cancer (stage 1 to 3)
- A local or regional recurrence of primary breast cancer
- Metastatic breast cancer
Why do you want me to be involved?
By taking part, you can help the researchers understand what’s important to people affected by breast cancer. And make sure that the study materials are easily understood.
What will you ask me to do?
The researchers would like to have an informal virtual chat with you, either online or a phone call. This will last up to 40 minutes, and you’ll be asked to give feedback on the research proposal.
How do I get involved?
If you’d like to get involved, or have any questions, please contact Ioannis Kourtzelis at ioannis.kourtzelis@york.ac.uk and he’ll be in touch with more details.
When’s the deadline?
6 April 2026