Mast cells are a long-lived type of immune cell, which is known to accumulate at ovarian cancer sites. Unlike many other types of immune cells, mast cells can survive radiotherapy and many chemotherapy treatments. Dr. Marshall and her team are investigating ways in which mast cells can be “programmed” to be more powerful initiators and drivers of a potent anti-cancer immune response. Based on very promising preliminary findings, the team is examining if mast cell expression of two powerful immune-activating proteins – called Interferon-epsilon and Interleukin 2 – can block the development and spread of ovarian cancer.