Immune-checkpoint inhibitors in hematologic malignancies

Immuno-checkpoint inhibitors are one of the most promising immunotherapies for various advanced cancers including hematologic malignancies. Recently, enhanced signaling of the PD-1/CTLA4 pathway has emerged as a critical mechanism by which tumors can escape the anti-tumor immune response. PD-1-blocking antibodies have been used to enhance immunity in several malignancies and obtain durable responses, especially in patients with heavily treated relapsed/refractory Hodgkin lymphoma. Currently, several clinical trials including single agent or combination therapies for hematologic malignancies, such as Hodgkin lymphoma, B-cell lymphomas and multiple myeloma, are ongoing. The results of ongoing and future clinical trials may establish a new treatment paradigm for hematologic malignancies.