Based on the existing expertise in Bavaria, immuno-oncology is to be the first joint research focus of the BZKF.

The aim is to prevent or detect significantly more cancers earlier and to be able to cure more cancers through new personalised and immunotherapeutic procedures. Immuno-oncological therapies aim to activate one’s own immune system effectively against cancer cells. This principle of therapy was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2018. The principal effectiveness of immuno-oncological procedures has been proven and initial approvals (e.g. CAR T- cell therapy – the body’s own genetically modified T-cells) have been granted. In order to adequately assess the benefits and risks of novel immuno-oncological therapies, further clinical trials need to be conducted for testing.