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Updated: Mar 21, 2026
Monitoring PD-1-Blocking Antibodies Bound to T Cells Derived from a Drop of Peripheral Blood
Published on: February 5, 2020
Are there, or shall we discover, biomarkers to guide PD-1 inhibition?
Paolo A Ascierto1, Ramon Andrade de Mello2,3,4
1MD Melanoma, Cancer Immunotherapy & Innovative Therapy Unit, Istituto Nazionale Tumori Fondazione Pascale Via Mariano Semmola, 80131 Napoli, Italy.
Abstract:
Paolo A Ascierto and Ramon A de Mello speak to Ellen Clarke, Commissioning Editor Despite the recent success of PD-1/PD-L1-directed immunotherapy in a number of different malignancies, there are currently no effective biomarkers available to predict patient response to treatment. This question is particularly important because these immunotherapy agents are expensive and have significant toxicity profiles. Early data are emerging on biomarkers such as PD-L1 expression; however, it is clear that further studies are needed to identify alternative biomarkers and to improve understanding of the host immune system and tumor microenvironment. In a panel interview Paolo Ascierto and Ramon de Mello discuss this important clinical question.
Insights
Predicting patient response to PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy remains challenging due to the lack of effective biomarkers. Further research is crucial for identifying new biomarkers and understanding the tumor microenvironment for better treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy has shown success in various cancers.
- Effective biomarkers to predict patient response are currently lacking.
- Immunotherapy agents are costly and associated with significant toxicities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the critical need for predictive biomarkers in PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy.
- To highlight the challenges posed by the absence of reliable biomarkers.
- To emphasize the importance of understanding the host immune system and tumor microenvironment.
Main Methods:
- Panel interview with experts Paolo Ascierto and Ramon de Mello.
- Discussion of current challenges and future directions in immunotherapy biomarker research.
Main Results:
- Early data on PD-L1 expression as a potential biomarker are emerging.
- Further studies are required to validate existing biomarkers and discover new ones.
- Improved understanding of the immune system and tumor microenvironment is essential.
Conclusions:
- There is an urgent need for validated biomarkers to guide PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy.
- Continued research is necessary to optimize patient selection and treatment strategies.
- A deeper understanding of tumor immunology will enhance therapeutic efficacy.
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