Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, but predicting patient response remains a challenge. Researchers at IRB Barcelona have identified five independent factors that influence immunotherapy success, paving the way for personalized cancer care.
The Five Key Factors
- Tumor Mutational Burden (TMB): High mutation rates produce more neoantigens, making tumors more recognizable to the immune system.
- Effective T-Cell Infiltration: Presence of cytotoxic T-cells in tumors enhances immunotherapy effectiveness.
- TGF-β Activity: High activity suppresses immune response, leading to poorer survival.
- Previous Treatment: Prior treatments can reduce immunotherapy response.
- Tumor Proliferative Potential: Aggressive tumors with high proliferative index tend to show poorer survival.
A Framework for Personalized Cancer Treatment
These factors provide a foundation for organizing current knowledge on immunotherapy biomarkers. By considering these factors, clinicians can better identify patients likely to benefit from immunotherapy, reducing unnecessary side effects.
Study Details
- Researchers analyzed genomic, transcriptomic, and clinical data from 479 patients with metastatic tumors.
- Findings validated in six independent cohorts covering 1,491 patients.
- Published in Nature Genetics.
Expert Insights
“Our study provides a reference framework for current and future biomarkers of immunotherapy response.” – Dr. Núria López-Bigas, ICREA researcher at IRB Barcelona.
Implications
- Personalized cancer treatment: Targeted therapy for patients most likely to benefit.
- Improved patient outcomes: Reduced side effects and enhanced survival rates.
- Expanded treatment options: Patients with certain tumor types may benefit from immunotherapy.
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