New Approaches in Glioblastoma Multiforme: The Potential Role of Immune- check Point Inhibitors
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Updated: Mar 16, 2026

Isolation and Flow Cytometric Analysis of Glioma-infiltrating Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells
Published on: November 28, 2015
Francesca De Felice1, Daniela Musio, Raffaele Cassese
1Department of Radiotherapy, Policlinico Umberto I, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 326, Rome, 00161, Italy.
Background:
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most frequent brain tumor. Despite recent advances in treatment approaches the prognosis remains poor, with a median overall survival of 14.6 months. Immunotherapy is the subject of ongoing research and its benefit is becoming evident in other malignancies. Immune check-points such as cytotoxic T lymphocyte associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4), programmed cell death receptor (PD-1) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) reduce immune response.
Objective:
To clarify the role of immune check point inhibitors in GBM management.
Methods:
Preclinical and clinical trials of immune check-point inhibitors in GBM were obtained by searching for English peer-reviewed articles on PubMed databases, trials registered on clincaltrials. gov and abstracts recently presented at international congresses.
Results:
Immune check point inhibitors may be of critical importance for the design of future immunotherapy approaches in GBM management.
Conclusion:
Immune check-point inhibitors should be considered a promising treatment option in GBM.
Insights
Immune check-point inhibitors show promise for treating glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a frequent brain tumor with poor prognosis. Further research into these immunotherapies could significantly improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Immunology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary brain tumor.
- Current GBM treatments offer limited efficacy, with a median survival of only 14.6 months.
- Immune checkpoints (CTLA-4, PD-1, IDO) suppress anti-tumor immune responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the role of immune checkpoint inhibitors in managing GBM.
- To synthesize current evidence on immunotherapy for glioblastoma.
Main Methods:
- Systematic search of preclinical and clinical trials.
- Databases searched include PubMed, clinicaltrials.gov, and international congress abstracts.
- Focus on English peer-reviewed literature.
Main Results:
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors represent a critical component for future GBM immunotherapy strategies.
- Evidence suggests potential efficacy in preclinical and clinical settings.
Conclusions:
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors are a promising therapeutic avenue for GBM.
- These agents warrant consideration in the evolving treatment landscape for glioblastoma.

