Nerve cells are frequently overlooked in studies of the tumor microenvironment—which also includes blood vessels, immune cells, and many others—but they play a significant role in cancer patients’ survival and quality of life.

Using genetically engineered mini-organs, the Jacks and Hwang Labs created a 3D model system where pancreatic cancer cells (green/cyan) interact with nerve cells (magenta). They seek to understand how the nervous system impacts tumor formation, growth, metastasis, and even drug resistance.