LAG3 immune inhibitors: a novel strategy for melanoma treatment

Abstract

Melanoma, a highly aggressive skin cancer, poses significant challenges in treatment, particularly for advanced or metastatic cases. While immunotherapy, especially immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting CTLA-4 and PD-1, has transformed melanoma management, many patients experience limited responses or develop resistance, highlighting the need for new therapeutic strategies. Lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG-3) has emerged as a promising target in cancer immunotherapy. LAG-3 inhibitors have shown potential in restoring T cell functions and enhancing anti-tumor immunity, particularly when used in combination with existing ICIs. This review discusses the latest advancements in LAG-3 inhibition for advanced melanoma, emphasizing its role in overcoming resistance and improving patient outcomes.

Keywords: antitumor immunity; clinical trial; immune checkpoint inhibitors; lymphocyte activation gene 3; melanoma.

Figure 1

(A) The structural comparison and similarities between CD4 and LAG-3. Copyright 2023 Ibrahim et al. Biomedicines by PubMed Central. (B) Schematic overview of the LAG-3 signaling pathway. Copyright 2023 Kreidieh et al. Ther Adv Med Oncol by PubMed Central.