Radiotherapy in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors

Dirk De Ruysscher*, Kobe Reynders, Evert Van Limbergen, Maarten Lambrecht

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journal(Systematic) Review article peer-review

Abstract

Purpose of review

The immunomodulatory effects of ionizing radiation have long been recognized; however, so far these have not been fully exploited in clinical practice. We review the rationale to combine radiation with immune checkpoint inhibitors, which are used in standard practice.

Recent findings

Preclinical research suggests a synergy between radiotherapy and these immune checkpoint inhibitors. Whether or not this benefit translates into a clinical benefit is currently subject of ongoing research.

Summary

It is highly rational to combine radiation with immune therapy as in preclinical models and in proof of concept trials in humans it clearly can increase the antitumor immunity when given together with other immune interventions.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)105-111
Number of pages7
JournalCurrent Opinion in Oncology
Volume29
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Mar 2017

Keywords

  • cancer
  • checkpoint inhibitors
  • immune therapy
  • radiation
  • radiotherapy
  • CELL LUNG-CANCER
  • IMMUNOTHERAPY
  • IRRADIATION
  • DOCETAXEL
  • PEMBROLIZUMAB
  • MULTICENTER
  • IPILIMUMAB
  • NIVOLUMAB
  • RADIATION
  • MICE

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