Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 22, 2026
Experimental Melanoma Immunotherapy Model Using Tumor Vaccination with a Hematopoietic Cytokine
Published on: February 24, 2023
Emerging biomarkers for cancer immunotherapy in melanoma
Margaret L Axelrod1, Douglas B Johnson2, Justin M Balko3
1Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States; Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States.
Abstract:
The treatment and prognosis of metastatic melanoma has changed substantially since the advent of novel immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), agents that enhance the anti-tumor immune response. Despite the success of these agents, clinically actionable biomarkers to aid patient and regimen selection are lacking. Herein, we summarize and review the evidence for candidate biomarkers of response to ICIs in melanoma. Many of these candidates can be examined as parts of a known molecular pathway of immune response, while others are clinical in nature. Due to the ability of ICIs to illicit dramatic and durable responses, well-validated biomarkers that can be effectively implemented in the clinic will require strong negative predictive values that do not limit patients with who may benefit from ICI therapy.
Insights
Novel immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have transformed metastatic melanoma treatment. However, validated biomarkers are needed for patient selection to ensure effective use of these powerful therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Metastatic melanoma treatment has significantly advanced with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
- These therapies enhance the anti-tumor immune response, leading to improved patient outcomes.
- A critical need exists for biomarkers to guide the selection of patients and treatment regimens for ICI therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize evidence for candidate biomarkers predicting response to ICIs in melanoma.
- To identify biomarkers that can be integrated into clinical practice for personalized treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of studies investigating biomarkers for ICI response in melanoma.
- Analysis of candidate biomarkers, including molecular pathways and clinical factors.
- Evaluation of the predictive value of biomarkers for treatment efficacy.
Main Results:
- Several candidate biomarkers, related to immune response pathways and clinical characteristics, show potential for predicting ICI response.
- Current biomarkers lack sufficient validation for widespread clinical implementation.
- Strong negative predictive values are essential for biomarkers to avoid excluding potentially responsive patients.
Conclusions:
- Validated biomarkers are crucial for optimizing the use of ICIs in metastatic melanoma.
- Future research should focus on developing biomarkers with high negative predictive value.
- Effective biomarkers will improve patient selection and maximize the benefit of immunotherapy.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Tumor Immunotherapy
01:30Cancer Vaccines
Cancer vaccines come in two categories: preventive (prophylactic) and treatment (active). Preventive vaccines, such as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, protect against viruses that cause certain...