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Molecular imaging to enlighten cancer immunotherapies and underlying involved processes
Elly L van der Veen1, Frederike Bensch1, Andor W J M Glaudemans2
1Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands.
Abstract:
Cancer immunotherapy has led to impressive antitumor effects. However, not all patients respond to immunotherapy, serious toxicity can occur and combination therapy may be warranted. Strategies for rational early treatment choices are urgently required. In the absence of ideal accompanying biomarkers it remains challenging to capture the dynamic, heterogeneous and complex tumor behavior. Tumor immune response involves next to tumor cells, numerous other cells and molecules in the tumor microenvironment. We review research to identify potential novel imaging biomarkers by non-invasive whole body molecular imaging with positron emission tomography and single-photon emission computed tomography for cancer immunotherapy. Firstly, imaging with radiolabeled immune checkpoint targeting molecules. Secondly, imaging of immune cells with ex vivo or in vivo radiolabeled tracers and thirdly, imaging extracellular matrix components, including adhesion molecules, growth factors and cytokines. These molecular imaging strategies - used alone, in combination or serially - could potentially contribute to patient selection upfront or early during immunotherapy.
Insights
Novel molecular imaging techniques using positron emission tomography and single-photon emission computed tomography show promise for identifying cancer immunotherapy biomarkers. These methods can help select patients and guide treatment strategies for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Radiology
- Molecular Imaging
Background:
- Cancer immunotherapy has shown significant antitumor effects but lacks predictive biomarkers for patient selection.
- Treatment response is variable, toxicity is a concern, and combination therapies are often needed.
- Understanding the complex tumor microenvironment and immune response is crucial for optimizing immunotherapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review research on novel molecular imaging biomarkers for cancer immunotherapy.
- To explore the potential of positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) for non-invasive assessment.
- To identify strategies for improving patient selection and treatment monitoring in immunotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of research focusing on molecular imaging in cancer immunotherapy.
- Categorization of imaging strategies into three main areas: immune checkpoint targeting molecules, immune cell imaging, and extracellular matrix component imaging.
- Discussion of the application of radiolabeled tracers for PET and SPECT.
Main Results:
- Potential imaging biomarkers identified include radiolabeled immune checkpoint targeting molecules.
- Imaging of immune cells using ex vivo or in vivo radiolabeled tracers is a viable approach.
- Imaging of extracellular matrix components like adhesion molecules, growth factors, and cytokines offers further biomarker potential.
Conclusions:
- Molecular imaging strategies using PET and SPECT can provide novel biomarkers for cancer immunotherapy.
- These imaging approaches can aid in upfront patient selection or early during immunotherapy.
- Combined or serial imaging strategies may enhance their clinical utility for personalized cancer treatment.
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