Cytokine-centered strategies to boost cancer immunotherapy

Cytokines have gained attention in oncology in recent years, especially in the context of immunotherapy. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the treatment of cancer, there are still some challenges to be faced, such as the lack of predictive biomarkers as well as the emergence of resistance and their severe side effects. In this Viewpoint, we discuss the potential of cytokines, the soluble mediators of cancer-associated inflammation, in immunotherapy. Indeed, both the activation and inhibition of cytokines have been suggested as potential strategies to overcome immunotherapy resistance. In addition, serum levels of certain cytokines can predict response to immunotherapy, and cytokine inhibition could also contribute to prevent side effects induced by ICIs. Thus, although further research is still required, data support that cytokine-based therapies could be an attractive therapeutic strategy for cancer patients treated with immunotherapy in the near future.