In this episode, we talk with Sara Orehek from the Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology at the National Institute of Chemistry about how immunogenic cell death is changing the way we approach cancer treatment. We dive into a recent study that sheds light on how dying cancer cells can do more than just disappear—they can send out alarm signals that activate the immune system and teach it to fight smarter.From the molecular mechanisms behind these death signals to the therapeutic potential of combining cell death with immune activation, this conversation explores the fascinating interface between synthetic biology, immunology, and oncology.Whether you're curious about immune system dynamics, breakthroughs in cancer therapy, or how synthetic biology is reshaping modern medicine—this one’s for you.🧬 The study was published in Nature Communications: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-55083-3 📄 Read more about the work of the Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology at the National Institute of Chemistry.: https://www.ki.si/en/departments/d12-department-of-synthetic-biology-and-immunology/__________ In the Papers Illuminated - Člankarnica podcast, together with researchers from the National Institute of Chemistry, we present interesting and accessible explanations of their latest discoveries, published in prestigious scientific journals. We invite you to follow us on social media and send us your questions, comments, and suggestions.https://www.ki.si/o-institutu/podkast/clankarnica/