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Updated: Aug 4, 2026
Multiplexed Immunofluorescence Analysis and Quantification of Intratumoral PD-1+ Tim-3+ CD8+ T Cells
Published on: February 8, 2018
Peripheral B-cell levels predict efficacy and overall survival in advanced melanoma patients under PD-1 immunotherapy
Xiaoli Liu1, Shuochuan Liu2, Zhiqiang Jiang3
1Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese & Western Medicine, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
Abstract:
Aims: Programmed death-1 (PD-1) blockade is a vital therapy for solid tumors, but not all patients benefit. Identifying which patients will benefit from immunotherapy is a key focus in oncology research. Patients & Methods: This study analyzed the correlation between the number of peripheral lymphocytes and the efficacy and prognosis of immunotherapy in advanced malignant melanoma. Results: Patients with a partial response had significantly lower peripheral B cell levels, and patients with a lower number of B lymphocytes had a longer survival time. Conclusion: These results suggest that peripheral B cells are correlated with the efficacy of PD-1 antibody and prognosis and are thus potential biomarkers for the efficacy and prognosis of PD-1 antibody immunotherapy in malignant melanoma.
Insights
Lower peripheral B cell counts correlate with better outcomes in advanced malignant melanoma patients receiving programmed death-1 (PD-1) blockade immunotherapy. This finding suggests B cells may predict treatment response and prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunotherapy
- Biomarkers
Background:
- Programmed death-1 (PD-1) blockade is a crucial immunotherapy for solid tumors.
- However, predicting patient response to PD-1 blockade remains a challenge in clinical oncology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between peripheral lymphocyte counts and immunotherapy efficacy in advanced malignant melanoma.
- To identify potential biomarkers for predicting response to PD-1 antibody treatment.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the correlation between peripheral lymphocyte counts and immunotherapy outcomes.
- Evaluation of treatment efficacy and patient prognosis in advanced malignant melanoma.
Main Results:
- Patients achieving partial response to PD-1 blockade exhibited significantly lower peripheral B cell levels.
- A reduced number of peripheral B lymphocytes was associated with longer patient survival times.
Conclusions:
- Peripheral B cells show a correlation with the efficacy of PD-1 antibody immunotherapy.
- Peripheral B cell counts may serve as potential biomarkers for predicting treatment efficacy and patient prognosis in malignant melanoma.
