Battle of the cells

With the help of the body’s immune defense against cancer

Abstract

Immuno-oncological therapies help to direct the body’s immune response specifically towards tumour cells. Cytotoxic T lymphocytes which play a crucial role for such therapies are subject to strict regulatory mechanisms. This regulation by immune checkpoints is used by immuno-oncological drugs in order to activate T lymphocytes and allow them to attack cancer cells. Another immuno-oncological approach is cell therapy, where the patient’s T lymphocytes are genetically modified to specifically recognize and fight tumour cells. In addition, immuno-oncology offers other options, such as general immune stimulation via cytokines, vaccines against cancer or oncolytic viruses. Immuno-oncology is the subject of intense research and clinical development. New drugs and combination approaches help to further improve the treatment of cancer patients.