April 10th, 11:30am-1:00pm
Residence Inn Boston Cambridge, 120 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02142
Obesity is a growing global epidemic and a well-established risk factor for at least 13 types of cancer. Despite this, preclinical oncology studies are often conducted in young, metabolically healthy mice that fail to reflect the metabolic and immune complexities of the patient population. To bridge this gap, Diet-Induced Obese (DIO) mouse models offer a more clinically relevant platform for evaluating cancer therapies, particularly in the context of immuno-oncology.
Join us for an exclusive Lunch & Learn where we present cutting-edge data on how obesity-driven metabolic changes impact tumor growth, immune responses, and checkpoint inhibitor efficacy. Our findings highlight the importance of metabolomics, proteomics, and tumor microenvironment (TME) analyses in refining drug development strategies.
What You’ll Learn:
- Obesity accelerates tumor growth and alters the immune landscape in preclinical models.
- The impact of immune checkpoint inhibitors (anti-mPD-1 and anti-CTLA-4) in DIO mice compared to standard-diet controls.
- Key metabolic shifts, including pentose phosphate pathway dysregulation, that may influence therapy response.
- Why DIO models provide a more predictive and translationally relevant approach for evaluating immunotherapies.
- How global metabolomic profiling reveals obesity-driven changes in glycolysis, lipid metabolism, and amino acid pathways that affect tumor progression.
- How proteomic analysis uncovers alterations in key metabolic enzymes and immune-related proteins, providing mechanistic insights into obesity’s impact on drug response.
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore how metabolically challenged preclinical models can improve translational research and better inform clinical strategies.
About the Speakers:
Michael Koratich
Sr. Director, Business Development, TD2 Oncology
Michael Koratich is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in cancer therapeutic development, covering the full spectrum from discovery to clinical trials. His technical expertise includes leading preclinical IND-enabling studies, bioanalytical method development/validation, and central lab operations, all with a strong focus on immuno-oncology. Michael has played a pivotal role in developing advanced flow cytometry techniques, in vitro and in vivo models, driving innovation and success in oncology therapeutic development at every stage of cancer therapeutic development. Michael has most recently served with Eurofins Biopharma Services as their Head of Global Business Development, Bioanalytic Services and then VP of Integrated Laboratory Services for Eurofins Central Laboratory. Michael is currently Senior Director of Business Development for Translational Drug Development, TD2, with primary responsibility for Preclinical, Regulatory Consulting and Flow Cytometry Services.
Tiffany Bernardo, PhD.
Business Development Manager, Panome Bio
Tiffany earned her Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh in Developmental Biology and Molecular Genetics where she focused on the role of PPARγ and lactate metabolism in early placentation. She specializes in applying untargeted metabolomics, proteomics, and multi-omic data integration to support biomarker discovery, drug development, and precision medicine. At Panome Bio, she collaborates with researchers across academia and industry to translate complex biological data into actionable insights.