Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics 2024, Vol.12, No.1, 1-7 http://www.medscipublisher.com/index.php/cge 4 Figure 1 FDA approved immune checkpoint inhibitors Note: Pembrolizumab, Nivolumab, and Cemiplimab as anti PD-1 antibodies; Ipilimumab as anti CTLA-4 antibody and Atezolizumab, Avelumab, and Durvalumab as anti PD-L1 antibodies 2.3 Advantages and challenges of immunomodulators in cancer treatment Immunomodulators in cancer treatment offer advantages including targeting the immune system, providing durable therapeutic effects, and being applicable to various cancer types. Immunomodulators can directly influence the immune system, activating or inhibiting specific immune cells or molecules, thereby enhancing the immune system's ability to attack tumors. Compared to traditional chemotherapy and radiation therapy, immunomodulators can generate sustained therapeutic effects. Once the immune system's ability to target tumors is activated, immune cells can continually eliminate tumor cells, reducing the risk of recurrence and metastasis. Immunomodulators find applications in the treatment of various cancer types, including melanoma, lung cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, among others. This makes immunomodulators a widely applicable and versatile treatment approach. One of the challenges in cancer treatment with immunomodulators is the development of resistance, where some patients may exhibit resistance to immunomodulator therapy (Da Silva et al., 2019). Tumor cells can evade immune cell attacks by altering immune escape mechanisms, thereby diminishing the effectiveness of immunomodulators. Additionally, the use of immunomodulators may trigger immune-related toxic reactions, such as autoimmune diseases caused by immune cell attacks on normal tissues. These toxic reactions can negatively impact the quality of life and treatment outcomes for patients. Furthermore, individual variations in patient responses to immunomodulators may exist. Some patients may respond well to immunomodulator therapy, while others may not. The high cost of immunomodulator treatment may limit access for some patients. Additionally, some immunomodulators have not been approved by insurance companies, making it difficult for patients to obtain these treatments. 3 Trends in the Development of Immunomodulators 3.1 Development of novel immunomodulators The development of novel immunomodulators represents a crucial research direction in the field of cancer treatment. Scientists are continually striving to identify new immunomodulators to enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapy and reduce side effects. These research endeavors hold the promise of bringing about breakthroughs in cancer treatment. However, it is important to note that the development of novel immunomodulators is a complex and lengthy process, necessitating rigorous laboratory research and clinical trials before they can be ultimately applied in clinical settings.
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