New approaches for cancer immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a promising field that offers alternative methods for treatment of cancer. The current strategy consists of cancer vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, and cellular therapies. Cancer vaccines aim to eradicate cancer cells via immune system. Thus, they may attack these cells derived from any type of cancer, besides their role in preventing cancer. Lymphocytes and dendritic cells are often used in cellular therapy. In addition, monoclonal antibodies are designed to target specific antigens found in cancer cells. Currently, at least 12 clinically approved monoclonal antibodies are being used and many cancer vaccines are being developed with ongoing phase studies for cancer therapy. Relevant studies are focused on glioma and several other cancer types. Correspondingly, the combination of effective methods may enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy. It is thought that particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors will play a crucial role in immunotherapeutic approaches.