Rachel Bhatt

Rachel Bhatt studies how epigenetic therapy can sensitize tumors to immunotherapy through demethylation-induced viral mimicry and immune gene reactivation. Her research demonstrated that DNMT inhibitors restore expression of endogenous retroviruses and interferon-stimulated genes that activate innate immune sensing. She has characterized how azacitidine and other hypomethylating agents increase tumor immunogenicity and synergize with checkpoint inhibitors. Her translational work is advancing clinical trials combining epigenetic priming with immunotherapy in solid tumors.