Aging and therapy resistance in metastatic melanoma

Aging significantly worsens outcomes in metastatic melanoma, yet most research overlooks how aging alters the tumor microenvironment. We aim to fill this gap using aged melanoma models that closely resemble human disease. By systematically comparing young and aged tumors, we will dissect how age-dependent alterations in suppressive myeloid cells, fibroblast senescence, and vascular remodeling influence tumor progression and metastasis. Our goal is to develop clinically relevant aged metastatic melanomas, providing a platform to study therapy resistance and metastasis within the context of aging. Therefore, this project will open new translational opportunities to improve treatment outcomes for older patients with melanoma.