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. 2019 Dec;11(4):217-227.
doi: 10.1007/s12609-019-00331-5. Epub 2019 Nov 11.

Biomarker predictors for immunotherapy benefit in breast: beyond PD-L1

Jamaal L James  1   2 , Justin M Balko  1   3   4   2
Affiliations

Biomarker predictors for immunotherapy benefit in breast: beyond PD-L1

Jamaal L James et al. Curr Breast Cancer Rep. 2019 Dec.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has changed the clinical course of multiple cancer types and durable responses have now been observed in breast cancer (BC) patients. Most data suggest that, compared to other subtypes, triple-negative BC (TNBC) patients are more responsive to ICB, and anti-PD-L1 therapy is now approved in PD-L1+ metastatic TNBC, in combination with chemotherapy.

Recent findings: Nearly 40% of PD-L1+ TNBC patients did not respond to this combination. Thus, additional biomarkers appear to be necessary to more precisely identify potential responders. A comprehensive analysis of the breast tumor microenvironment (TME) and peripheral blood may identify potential biomarkers for a more accurate selection of patients likely to respond to ICB.

Summary: Herein, we summarize key features of the breast TME, and beyond, that may hold predictive power in determining immunotherapy benefit. Incorporation of these features in controlled clinical trials may help further guide personalized care for BC immunotherapy.

Keywords: Breast cancer; biomarkers; programmed death-ligand 1.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Proposed biomarkers for anti-PD-L1 benefit
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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