Researchers Identify Method to Expose Cancer Cells to Immune Attack

Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys published findings in Science Advances on August 7, 2026, identifying a method to thin the sugar-derived coating that helps cancer cells evade immune detection.

The study found that hyperglycemia and physical pressure in the tumor microenvironment increase the thickness of the glycocalyx, a protective barrier that hides tumors from the immune system.

Researchers identified the protein HSF1 as a key target for drug development, suggesting that inhibiting this protein could expose cancer cells to more effective immune system attacks.