A predictive multiphysics framework for optimizing focused ultrasound-assisted immune checkpoint blockade

The efficacy of immune checkpoint blockers in solid tumors remains limited by the physical and biological barriers posed by the tumor microenvironment, which restrict antibody transport and suppress anti-tumor immune responses. Focused ultrasound has emerged as a promising strategy to transiently enhance tumor perfusion, thereby improving the intratumoral delivery of immunotherapeutic agents. Despite encouraging experimental findings, a quantitative understanding of the coupled transport and immune mechanisms underlying focused ultrasound-enhanced immunotherapy remains incomplete. Here, we developed a multiphysics computational model to investigate how focused ultrasound modulates the tumor microenvironment, enhances the delivery of immune checkpoint blockers and influences innate and adaptive immune responses in solid tumors. Model predictions were validated against published in vivo experimental data, demonstrating good agreement with tumor growth and immune response measurements. Parametric analysis identified both tumor microenvironment and therapy-related parameters as key determinants of treatment efficacy. Stromal normalization and increased vessel wall pore radius enhanced antibody delivery, immune cell accumulation and tumor control, while focused ultrasound further amplified these effects. Moreover, increasing the anti-PD-1/PD-1 binding affinity and antibody administration dose enhanced immune checkpoint inhibition and tumor suppression, with focused ultrasound broadening the range of antibody characteristics associated with favorable therapeutic outcomes. Overall, the proposed computational framework provides a predictive platform for investigating and optimizing focused ultrasound-assisted immune checkpoint blockade, offering mechanistic insight into how focused ultrasound-induced modulation of the tumor microenvironment enhances antibody transport, promotes anti-tumor immune responses and improves therapeutic response.