Emerging PD-1/PD-L1 targeting immunotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer: Current status and future perspective in Japan, US, EU, and China
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Takaaki Mizuno1, Yuki Katsuya1, Jun Sato1
1Department of Experimental Therapeutics, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.
Abstract:
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), one of the deadliest types of cancers worldwide, has been the target of immunotherapy due to its high immune antigenicity. With the addition of immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), including anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies, as an indispensable and powerful regimen for the treatment of this lethal disease, the median survival time for patients with stage IV NSCLC is approximately 2 years. In contrast, the response rate to ICIs remains less than 50%, even if the patients are selected using biomarkers such as PD-L1. Pharmaceutical companies have begun to develop additional anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies to overcome resistance and are devising further immunotherapy combinations. More than 20 anti-PD-1/PD-L1antibodies have been approved or are currently in development. Numerous combination therapies are under development, and several combination therapies have provided positive results in randomized controlled trials. This review aimed to examine the current status of approved and investigational anti-PD-1/PD-L1antibodies for NSCLC in Japan, the United States, the European Union, and China. Further, this review discusses the challenges and future perspectives for developing new ICIs in alignment with the global developments in Japan.
Insights
Immunotherapy with immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) offers new hope for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. This review examines approved and investigational anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies for NSCLC globally.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a leading cause of cancer death globally.
- Immunotherapy, particularly immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) like anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies, has become a cornerstone in NSCLC treatment.
- Despite advancements, ICI response rates remain below 50%, highlighting the need for improved strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current landscape of approved and investigational anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies for NSCLC.
- To analyze the global status of these immunotherapies in key regions including Japan, the US, EU, and China.
- To discuss challenges and future directions in the development of novel ICIs for NSCLC.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of approved and investigational anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies for NSCLC.
- Analysis of clinical trial data and regulatory approvals in Japan, the United States, the European Union, and China.
- Synthesis of information on combination therapies and emerging ICI development trends.
Main Results:
- Over 20 anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies are approved or in development for NSCLC.
- Several combination therapies have shown positive results in randomized controlled trials.
- Significant global efforts are underway to develop novel ICIs and overcome resistance.
Conclusions:
- Anti-PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies represent a critical advancement in NSCLC treatment.
- Continued research and development are essential to enhance ICI efficacy and address treatment resistance.
- Global collaboration and strategic development are key to advancing NSCLC immunotherapy.
