Small molecules for immunomodulation in cancer: a review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Small-molecule cytotoxic agents are used in antibody conjugates for targeted cancer therapy.
• Small molecules also function as antagonists to surface receptors and metabolic enzymes, impacting tumor microenvironment interactions.
• These agents can directly inhibit signaling, recruit immune cells, or modulate immune cell proliferation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review small molecules as immune response modifiers in cancer immunotherapy.
• To discuss various classes of small molecules targeting cancer and immune dysregulation.
• To highlight emerging targets for immune system modulation in the tumor microenvironment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of small molecules in cancer immunotherapy.
• Discussion of immune response modifiers including imiquimod, antibody-recruiting molecules, and receptor antagonists.
• Exploration of enzyme inhibitors and kinase inhibitors relevant to cancer treatment.

Main Results:

• Small molecules offer diverse mechanisms to target cancer cells and influence the immune system.
• Specific examples include indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase inhibitors, RORɣt antagonists, and carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX) inhibitors.
• These agents demonstrate potential in treating various cancers and immune-related diseases.

Conclusions:

• Small molecules represent a promising avenue for developing novel cancer immunotherapies.
• Targeting immune responses within the tumor microenvironment is crucial for effective treatment.
• Further research into novel small-molecule targets could lead to breakthroughs in treating cancer and immune dysregulation.