University of Helsinki Research Offers New Insight Into Cancer Treatment, Paving the Way for Personalized Therapies

University of Helsinki Research Offers New Insight Into Cancer Treatment, Paving the Way for Personalized Therapies

(IN BRIEF) A study by the University of Helsinki has uncovered why some breast cancer treatments, including immunotherapy, may not be effective for all patients. The research, focusing on the mechanical properties of tumor tissue, shows that softer tissue environments allow cancer cells to evade the immune system, speeding up disease progression. This discovery could help doctors identify patients unlikely to benefit from immunotherapy, guiding them toward alternative treatments. The study is the result of a unique Finnish collaboration, with growing global interest.

(PRESS RELEASE) HELSINKI, 3-Jun-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — A groundbreaking discovery by researchers at the University of Helsinki has opened new possibilities for more personalized cancer care, particularly for breast cancer patients. The findings shed light on why immunotherapy, a major advancement in cancer treatment, does not work for all patients, offering a new direction for developing precision medicine in oncology.

The study reveals that the spread of breast cancer is not only influenced by chemical signals between tumor cells but also by the mechanical properties of the tumor tissue. Specifically, the stiffness or softness of the tumor’s microenvironment plays a crucial role in how effectively the body’s immune system can recognize and fight cancer cells. The researchers found that a softer tissue environment allows cancer cells to hide from the immune system, potentially accelerating disease progression.

Cancer cells hide from the immune system in a soft microenvironment. Image: Biorender

“We have a unique opportunity in Finland to study living breast cancer tissue samples directly taken from patients. Unlike traditional cell culture or animal models, this approach offers a more realistic understanding of cancer behavior,” explains MD-PhD student Aino Peura from the University of Helsinki. “Our research shows that in a soft microenvironment, cancer cells can evade detection by the immune system, contributing to faster tumor growth.”

These findings could help doctors identify patients who may not respond to immunotherapy and guide them toward alternative, more effective treatments. This approach has the potential to optimize outcomes, reducing unnecessary treatments and improving the overall quality of care for patients.

The research was conducted through a unique collaboration between the University of Helsinki, HUS Helsinki University Hospital, and Kymenlaakso Health and Social Services. This partnership enables the collection of breast cancer tissue directly from operating theaters for research purposes, a method that is rare on a global scale.

Professor Juha Klefström, the head of the research group, notes, “We have received significant interest from international researchers eager to learn about how this collaboration works. It highlights the strength of Finland’s research environment.”

The study’s success is largely due to the generosity of patients who agree to donate surplus tissue for research. “Without the support of patients, our work would not be possible. Their contributions are vital in advancing therapies that can improve the future of cancer treatment,” says Aino Peura.

The full study was published in Nature Communications.

Media Contacts:

Aino Peura
Doctoral Researcher
Translational Cancer Medicine Program
aino.peura@helsinki.fi

Juha Klefström
Research Director
Translational Cancer Medicine Program
juha.klefstrom@helsinki.fi
+358294125493

SOURCE: University of Helsinki