Understanding the role of macrophages in intracranial teratoma with a spatial approach: a single-case study

Abstract

Intracranial teratomas are a rare type of germ-cell tumor characterized by the presence of the three germ cell layers. The prognosis depends partially on the ratio of pro- and anti-tumoral macrophages. Additionally, studies on the role of tumor-associated macrophages have revealed their relevance in tumor growth and metastasis initiation across different tumor types, but no research has been performed in intracranial teratomas. To understand the interplay between macrophages and tumor cells in this disease, a spatial approach is needed to explore cell-cell interactions. Using spatial molecular imaging on an intracranial teratoma slice, we will spatially characterize the transcriptome and proteome of this disease for the first time. We plan on describing all cell types found in our sample, focusing on the macrophage subpopulations. For the first time we can now identify macrophage subtypes and link their phenotypes to their spatial localization within the teratoma. Moreover, we will study the interactions of macrophages with the other cell types from our sample, as well as exploring their microenvironment. Insight into the spatial distribution of macrophage subtypes and their interactions with other cells is crucial because it will help us uncover key signaling pathways and potential therapeutic targets. With this project, we have a case study of a pediatric intracranial teratoma using spatially resolved transcriptomic and proteomic approach. We aim to set a first step in understanding the tumor-immune interactions by exploring the transcriptional profiles from macrophages in intracranial teratoma in relation to their intratumoral location. A better grasp of said interactions can help us find new potential therapeutic alternatives for this disease.