Immune checkpoint blockade in renal cell carcinoma

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) is the foundation of current first-line therapies in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) with the potential for eliciting long-lasting remissions. With the expanding arsenal of ICB-based therapies, biomarkers of response are urgently needed to guide optimal therapeutic selection. We review the data behind ICB therapy in RCC, emerging biomarkers of response, and the evolving role of surgery in patients with mRCC.

Automated summary

ICB therapy is the foundation of first-line therapies in patients with mRCC, showing potential for long-lasting remissions. With the expanding arsenal of ICB-based therapies, there is an urgent need for biomarkers of response to guide optimal therapeutic selection.