Immunotherapy of glioblastoma multiforme

Glioblastoma multiforme is immunogenic and several glioblastoma multiforme-related antigens have now been identified. In addition, the immunologic characteristics of the tumor microenvironment that may affect tumor growth are becoming increasingly understood. The type of immune-based approach selected to treat glioblastoma multiforme will depend on the tumor burden. For minimal disease states, active vaccination may be useful for generating adequate protection from relapse. However, for more advanced stage disease states, more rigorous strategies may need to be applied, such as adoptive T-cell therapy, antibody therapy or a combination of different techniques. The immunosuppressive environment observed during advanced malignancy may need to be reversed for improved efficacy of immune-based therapies.