Immuno-oncology or cancer immunotherapy is a form of cancer treatment that uses the power of the body’s own immune system to prevent, control and eliminate cancer. The Molecular & Cellular Immunology Core (MCIC) at the BC Cancer Deeley Research Centre is a leader in immuno-oncology research, providing a full-service facility specializing in advanced molecular, genomic, and histological methods to support and progress the cancer therapeutics space.

The MCIC, led by Dr. Brad Nelson, has integrated advanced imaging equipment, scRNA-seq analyses and high-dimensional flow cytometry. They currently have the most complex histology equipment in the province. The MCIC utilizes these latest technologies to support clinical trials, examine complex clinical samples and assist in the commercialization of immunotherapy products.

Through the integration of these innovative technologies MCIC continues to serve as a leading Canadian facility to support academic and industry projects both nationally and internationally, ranging from investigator-driven basic research to correlative studies for clinical trials, to fee-for-service projects with industrial clients. Genome BC co-funded the MCIC with BioCanRx: Canada’s Immunotherapy Network, and BC Cancer Foundation.