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Review
. 2019 Jun 19;2(2):178-188.
doi: 10.20517/cdr.2018.015. eCollection 2019.

Mechanism of resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors

Manu R Pandey  1 , Marc S Ernstoff  1
Affiliations
Review

Mechanism of resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors

Manu R Pandey et al. Cancer Drug Resist. .

Abstract

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have revolutionized the management of cancer over the last decade. Instead of targeting the cancer cell directly these agents work by augmenting the immune response towards tumor. Although they are associated with improved responses compared to traditional treatments in several malignancies, a majority of the patients don't respond to ICIs even when used in the frontline setting. In patients who do respond, a significant number eventually develop resistance. We will review ICI mechanisms of action and resistance. We will also discuss new therapeutic options and combinations with other agents that are currently being evaluated to overcome resistance to ICI.

Keywords: Immune checkpoint inhibitors; checkpoint inhibitors; mechanism; resistance.

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Conflict of interest statement

Both authors declared that there are no conflicts of interest.

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