Biomarkers of immune checkpoint inhibitor efficacy in cancer

Curr Oncol. 2020 Apr;27(Suppl 2):S106-S114. doi: 10.3747/co.27.5549. Epub 2020 Apr 1.

Abstract

Immune checkpoint inhibitor-based therapies that target ctla-4, PD-1, or the PD-1 ligand PD-L1 have received approval in Canada and many parts of the world for the treatment of melanoma, renal cell cancer, urothelial cancer, classical Hodgkin lymphoma, and non-small-cell lung cancer. However only a small proportion of patients derive long-term clinical benefit. Here, we describe the biomarkers associated with the complex relationship between tumour-related immune stimulus, T cell-mediated immune response, and immune modulation of the microenvironment that can help to predict improved patient outcomes.

Keywords: Immune checkpoints; PD-1; PD-L1; biomarkers; ctla-4.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors / pharmacology
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors