[Overview of Multiplex Immunohistochemistry and Immunofluorescence Techniques 
in the Lung Cancer Immunotherapy]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Lung cancer is a leading global malignancy, necessitating advanced treatment strategies.
• Programmed cell death receptor 1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors represent a key immunotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
• Current biomarkers for immunotherapy selection in NSCLC have limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the research progress of multiplex immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence (mIHC/IF) in lung cancer immunotherapy.
• To highlight the utility of mIHC/IF in understanding the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME).

Main Methods:

• Multiplex immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence (mIHC/IF) enables simultaneous detection of multiple targets.
• mIHC/IF facilitates comprehensive analysis of cellular composition, functions, and interactions within the TIME.
• Studies utilizing mIHC/IF have explored specific immune cells in the TIME.

Main Results:

• mIHC/IF provides multiplex staining for detailed TIME analysis.
• Research indicates mIHC/IF is valuable for predicting clinical prognosis and treatment efficacy in lung cancer patients.
• The technique aids in identifying immune cells crucial for immunotherapy response.

Conclusions:

• Multiplex immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence (mIHC/IF) shows significant potential in advancing lung cancer immunotherapy.
• mIHC/IF is a powerful tool for translational research and clinical practice in the era of immunotherapy.
• This technique enhances patient selection for immunotherapy, improving outcomes in lung cancer treatment.