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Targeting the Immune system and Epigenetic Landscape of Urological Tumors
João Lobo1,2,3, Carmen Jerónimo2,3, Rui Henrique1,2,3
1Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
Abstract:
In the last years, we have witnessed remarkable advances in targeted therapies for cancer patients. There is a growing effort to either replace or reduce the dose of unspecific, systemic (chemo)therapies, given the associated short- and long-term side effects, by introducing more specific targeted therapies as single or combination agents. Due to the well-known implications of the immune system and epigenetic landscape in modulating cancer development, both have been explored as potential targets in several malignancies, including those affecting the genitourinary tract. As the immune system function is also epigenetically regulated, there is rationale for combining both strategies. However, this is still rather underexplored, namely in urological tumors. We aim to briefly review the use of immune therapies in prostate, kidney, bladder, and testicular cancer, and further describe studies providing supporting evidence on their combination with epigenetic-based therapies.
Insights
Combining immunotherapy and epigenetic therapy shows promise for genitourinary cancers. This approach aims to reduce side effects of traditional chemotherapy by targeting cancer
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Targeted therapies are replacing traditional chemotherapy for cancer patients due to fewer side effects.
- The immune system and epigenetics play crucial roles in cancer development and progression.
- Genitourinary tract cancers are increasingly being treated with novel therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current use of immunotherapies in prostate, kidney, bladder, and testicular cancers.
- To explore the potential of combining immunotherapies with epigenetic-based therapies in urological tumors.
- To highlight the rationale for combining immune and epigenetic strategies due to their interconnected roles in cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of immune therapies in genitourinary cancers.
- Analysis of studies investigating the combination of immunotherapy and epigenetic therapy.
- Focus on evidence supporting combined strategies in urological malignancies.
Main Results:
- Immunotherapy is established in treating various genitourinary cancers.
- Epigenetic therapies are emerging as promising agents in oncology.
- Preliminary evidence suggests a synergistic effect when combining immune and epigenetic therapies.
Conclusions:
- Combining immunotherapy and epigenetic therapy is an underexplored but promising strategy for genitourinary cancers.
- This combined approach may offer enhanced efficacy and reduced toxicity compared to conventional treatments.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the potential of this combination therapy in urological tumors.
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