Research: Cancer and Host Interactions

Cancer Host and Interactions (CHI) is a fundamental and translational program.

Research members are focused on the interaction of cancer with host tissues—mechanistically understanding cell migration and division within the tumor microenvironment; consequences of malignancy on host systems that impact outcomes for cancer patients; parameters in the host that promote or impede cancer progression; and the response to clinical interventions.

Theme One

Cellular level tumor-host interactions

1) Cell mechanics and the tumor microenvironment

2) Chemical communication between host and tumor

Theme Two

Patient level tumor-host interactions

1) Impact of cancer on host physiology

2) Impact of interventions on cancer and host physiology

in grant funding awarded in 2025.

Program Impact

UVMCC Research Influences New National Guidelines of Colorectal Cancer Treatment

Chris Anker, M.D., played a key role in shaping new national rectal cancer treatment guidelines that place greater emphasis on quality of life by expanding evidence‑based options to avoid radiation or even surgery for select patients. Through a rigorous systematic review of thousands of studies and collaboration with a multidisciplinary panel of experts, Dr. Anker helped ensure the guidelines reflect the strongest available data and present practical pathways that clinicians can apply to nearly any patient. This work empowers providers to offer more personalized, less invasive treatment strategies backed by clear, comprehensive evidence.

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A Distinct Fingerprint: How the Epstein-Barr Virus Shapes Lymphoma

Research by Ashley Volaric, PhD, along with Cancer Cell member Seth Frietze, PhD, found that Epstein-Barr virus‑positive diffuse large B‑cell lymphoma has a unique biological ‘signature’ that sets it apart from other forms of the disease. By closely examining tumor samples from patients across our region, they uncovered key gene and pathway differences that may help explain why these cancers behave differently. These insights open the door to more precise diagnosis and, ultimately, more personalized treatment options for patients.

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Pictured: Representative histological images of EBV(+) and EBV(−) DLBCL. (A,B) EBV(+) DLBCL showing prominent large B-cells in a high-powered field with a mixed inflammatory background of small lymphocytes, granulocytes, and apoptotic debris (A, H&E, 40×)

Study Finds Rurality Does Not Impact Outcomes of Glioblastoma Patients Diagnosed at UVMMC

A study led by Alissa Thomas, M.D., and published in BMC Health Services Research, found that glioblastoma patients treated at University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) had equal survival outcomes whether they lived in rural or urban areas—an uncommon pattern for most cancers. The team suggests that the rapid onset of neurological symptoms and the fact that all Vermont patients must receive specialized neurosurgical diagnosis at UVMMC may help level the playing field for rural patients.

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A Novel Model System to Study Lung Cancer Cachexia

Deena Snoke, Ph.D., led a collaborative study published in Cell Reports that established a new preclinical model of lung‑cancer‑associated cachexia, revealing that early and substantial fat loss occurs well before diagnosis—a finding that mirrors patterns seen in patients from the National Lung Screening Trial. These findings suggest that changes in body composition may serve as an early warning sign for lung cancer and provide a powerful model for uncovering the mechanisms that drive cancer‑related wasting. Supported by a UVM Cancer Center Pilot Award and travel grants, this team‑science effort laid the foundation for Dr. Snoke’s newly funded NCI K99/R00 award.

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