Sci Transl Med2023
Tumor-associated fibrosis impairs immune surveillance and response to immune checkpoint blockade in non-small cell lung cancer
Herzog BH, Baer JM, Borcherding N, et al.
PubMed →Herzog Lab @ WUSM
About Us
The Herzog Lab at Washington University School of Medicine focuses on understanding the tumor microenvironment (TME) in thoracic malignancies, with a particular emphasis on lung cancer.
We combine cutting-edge immunology, genomics, and translational approaches to identify mechanisms of immune evasion and develop novel combination immunotherapy strategies.
Our work spans from basic science discovery to early-phase clinical trials, bridging the bench-to-bedside gap in thoracic oncology.
Our Lab Culture
We are committed to fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive research environment. We welcome trainees from diverse backgrounds and are dedicated to mentoring the next generation of physician-scientists and researchers.
Publications
Peer-reviewed research from the Herzog Lab
Highlighted Recent Published Research
J Thorac Oncol2021
Overcoming Chemotherapy Resistance in SCLC
Herzog BH, Devarakonda S, Govindan R.
PubMed →
Cancer Cell2020
Dendritic Cell Paucity Leads to Dysfunctional Immune Surveillance in Pancreatic Cancer
Hegde S, Krisnawan VE, Herzog BH, Zuo C, et al.
PubMed →
Lung Cancer2022
Ramucirumab plus atezolizumab in patients with stage IV non-small cell lung cancer previously treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors
Herzog BH, Waqar SN, Devarakonda S, et al.
PubMed →Our Research
Lung Cancer Tumor Microenvironment
We investigate how fibrosis, immune cell composition, and stromal remodeling within the lung cancer TME drive resistance to immune checkpoint blockade. Our studies use multiplex imaging, single-cell sequencing, and functional assays to map the cellular landscape of NSCLC tumors.
Small Cell Lung Cancer Biology
SCLC remains one of the most lethal thoracic malignancies. We study the molecular mechanisms underlying chemotherapy resistance and immune evasion in SCLC, with the goal of identifying new therapeutic vulnerabilities.
Translational Immunotherapy
We design and lead early-phase clinical trials combining immunotherapy with novel agents targeting the TME. Our translational program integrates correlative biomarker studies to understand mechanisms of response and resistance in patients.
Clinical Trials
Phase I · Completed
Defactinib + Pembrolizumab + Gemcitabine
Dose escalation and expansion study in advanced treatment-refractory pancreatic cancer.
Learn More →Phase II · Published
Ramucirumab + Atezolizumab in NSCLC
Combination anti-VEGFR2 and anti-PD-L1 therapy in previously treated stage IV NSCLC.
Learn More →Pre-Clinical · Ongoing
TME-Targeted Combination Immunotherapy
Novel combinations targeting stromal and immune components of the lung cancer TME.
Learn More →Our Team
Principal Investigator
Brett H. Herzog, MD
Principal Investigator
Dr. Herzog is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Washington University School of Medicine. His research focuses on the tumor microenvironment in thoracic malignancies and the development of novel immunotherapeutic strategies for lung cancer.
Lab Members
Peter
Lab Manager
Onyi
MD/PhD Student
Abul
Senior Scientist
Full team roster coming soon — contact us to learn more about joining the lab.
Contact Us
Interested in joining the lab or collaborating? We'd love to hear from you.