Eradicating micrometastases with immune checkpoint blockade: Strike while the iron is hot

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) is transforming treatment for many cancers. While ICB alone initially demonstrated efficacy in patients with metastatic melanoma, it has expanded to other types and to earlier-stage cancers. We describe ICB history, mechanisms underlying variation in response, and how ICB is being integrated into adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatment approaches.

Automated summary

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has revolutionized cancer treatment, starting with metastatic melanoma patients and now extending to various types of cancer at different stages. Research is ongoing to understand the history and mechanisms behind the response variations, as well as the integration of ICB into different treatment approaches.