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Advances in cancer immunotherapy: historical perspectives, current developments, and future directions
Meiyin Zhang1, Chaojun Liu2, Jing Tu3
1Department of Surgical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China.
Molecular Cancer
|May 7, 2025
Summary
Cancer immunotherapy harnesses the immune system to fight tumors, exploring novel strategies and established treatments like immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Research focuses on enhancing efficacy, overcoming resistance, and developing personalized approaches for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Cancer immunotherapy utilizes the immune system for tumor suppression.
- It includes experimental and standard-of-care therapies like immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
- Understanding anticancer immunity and immune evasion is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolution, mechanisms, and strategies of cancer immunotherapy.
- To highlight clinical applications and preclinical advancements.
- To examine factors influencing immunotherapy outcomes and resistance.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of historical and current research.
- Analysis of key immunotherapeutic strategies (vaccines, oncolytic viruses, adoptive cell transfer, ICIs).
- Exploration of nanotechnology, cytokines, chemokines, adjuvants, and combination therapies.
Main Results:
- Immunotherapy strategies show promise but face challenges like immune evasion and resistance.
- Combination therapies and emerging factors (microbiota, epigenetics) influence outcomes.
- Biomarker-driven approaches and personalized therapies are advancing treatment.
Conclusions:
- Cancer immunotherapy is a rapidly evolving field with significant potential.
- Addressing toxicity, efficacy in solid tumors, and production constraints are key research areas.
- Personalized therapies and novel delivery systems can enhance effectiveness and accessibility.
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