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Predictive Biomarkers of Immune Checkpoint Inhibition in Gastroesophageal Cancers
Raghav Sundar1,2,3,4, Elizabeth C Smyth5, Siyu Peng6
1Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore.
Abstract:
Immune checkpoint inhibition has transformed cancer treatment. For gastroesophageal cancer, this class of drugs have demonstrated durable responses and survival benefit in a subgroup of patients, resulting in regulatory approval. However, several recent randomized phase III studies in gastroesophageal cancer have reported negative results, blunting initial enthusiasm. Identification and validation of predictive biomarkers with appropriate patient selection for benefit from immunotherapy is an area of intense research with novel concepts rapidly emerging. In this review we describe the latest immune checkpoint inhibitor trials which have been reported in gastroesophageal cancers with a focus on predictive biomarkers. We also explore novel biomarkers being developed to improve precision oncology for immunotherapy in gastroesophageal cancers.
Insights
Immune checkpoint inhibitors show promise for gastroesophageal cancer, but patient selection is key. Research focuses on predictive biomarkers to identify who benefits most from immunotherapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunotherapy
- Gastroesophageal Cancer Research
Background:
- Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer therapy, offering durable responses in some gastroesophageal cancer patients.
- Despite initial successes and regulatory approvals, recent phase III trials in gastroesophageal cancer have yielded disappointing results, tempering enthusiasm for ICIs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent immune checkpoint inhibitor trials in gastroesophageal cancers.
- To highlight the critical role of predictive biomarkers in patient selection for immunotherapy.
- To explore emerging biomarkers for precision oncology in gastroesophageal cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent randomized phase III studies on immune checkpoint inhibitors in gastroesophageal cancer.
- Analysis of reported outcomes and predictive biomarker data.
- Exploration of novel biomarker research and concepts.
Main Results:
- Immune checkpoint inhibition has demonstrated efficacy in a subset of gastroesophageal cancer patients.
- Several recent large-scale trials have failed to show a survival benefit, indicating a need for better patient stratification.
- Predictive biomarkers are crucial for identifying patients likely to respond to immunotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Identifying predictive biomarkers is essential for optimizing immunotherapy in gastroesophageal cancer.
- Ongoing research into novel biomarkers aims to enhance precision oncology and improve treatment outcomes.
- Further validation of biomarkers is needed to guide clinical decision-making for immune checkpoint inhibitors.
