Types of Immunotherapy Treatments

Posted on: October 23, 2023 *Updated on: May 27, 2024

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There are various types of immunotherapy treatments available for patients with mesothelioma, a type of cancer most commonly affecting the lining of the lungs and abdomen. However, I must note that the field of oncology is constantly evolving, and it’s crucial to consult medical professionals for the most up-to-date treatment options. Some of the main types of immunotherapy used for mesothelioma are:

Checkpoint Inhibitors

Checkpoint inhibitors are drugs that block certain proteins that act as “brakes” on the immune system, thereby enhancing its ability to attack cancer cells. Drugs in this category include:

• Pembrolizumab (Keytruda): Targets the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway.
• Nivolumab (Opdivo): Also targets the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway.
• Ipilimumab (Yervoy): Targets the CTLA-4 pathway.

Immune System Modulators

These are drugs that generally boost or modulate the immune system in a broader sense, rather than targeting a specific checkpoint. Examples include interferons and interleukins.

Cancer Vaccines

Although this is still an area of active research, cancer vaccines aim to train the immune system to recognize and attack specific cancer cells. Unlike traditional vaccines, these are generally given after a person has been diagnosed with cancer.

Adoptive T-cell Therapy

In this approach, T cells (a type of immune cell) are collected from the patient, genetically modified or treated to enhance their cancer-fighting capabilities, and then reintroduced into the patient’s body.

Oncolytic Virus Therapy

Some therapies use viruses designed to infect and kill cancer cells while leaving normal cells unharmed. The idea is that the virus will induce an immune response that then also targets the cancer cells.

Monoclonal Antibodies

These are lab-made molecules that can mimic the immune system’s ability to fight off harmful substances like cancer cells. Some target specific parts of cancer cells, while others may work more broadly.

Bispecific Antibodies

These are engineered antibodies that can simultaneously bind to two different types of proteins—one on the immune cell and one on the cancer cell—bringing them into proximity and promoting an immune response against the cancer.

It is crucial to remember that the effectiveness of immunotherapy can vary from patient to patient and may come with its own set of risks and side effects. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice.