Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy, also known as biologic therapy, is a type of cancer treatment that harnesses the body's own immune system to identify, target, and destroy cancer cells. The immune system plays a crucial role in defending the body against foreign invaders, and immunotherapy seeks to enhance or stimulate the natural ability of the immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cells.

There are several types of immunotherapy, each with its own mechanisms of action. Some common types include:

1. Checkpoint Inhibitors: These drugs target proteins that act as checkpoints on immune cells, such as PD-1 (programmed cell death protein 1) or PD-L1 (programmed death-ligand 1). By blocking these checkpoints, the immune system's ability to recognize and attack cancer cells is enhanced.

2. CAR T-cell Therapy: Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy involves modifying a patient's own T cells (a type of immune cell) to express a receptor that recognizes specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells. These modified T cells are then infused back into the patient to target and destroy cancer cells.

3. Monoclonal Antibodies: These are laboratory-made molecules designed to mimic the immune system's ability to fight off harmful pathogens. Monoclonal antibodies can target specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells or immune cells, either enhancing the immune response or directly attacking the cancer cells.

4. Cytokines: Interferons and interleukins are types of cytokines that can be administered to stimulate the immune system. They help regulate the growth and activity of immune cells.

5. Cancer Vaccines: These vaccines are designed to stimulate the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. They can be made from cancer cells, parts of cells, or substances produced by cells.

Immunotherapy has shown remarkable success in the treatment of various cancers and has led to durable responses and improved survival rates for some patients. Unlike traditional treatments like chemotherapy, which directly target cancer cells, immunotherapy works by empowering the body's immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells, often with fewer side effects.