Nanotechnology-based platforms to improve immune checkpoint blockade efficacy in cancer therapy

In recent years, cancer immunotherapy has evolved as an exciting novel strategy for researchers and clinicians worldwide. Immunotherapeutic agents such as immune checkpoint blockers have changed the standard-of-care treatment provided for many tumors. Unfortunately, only a small proportion of patients respond effectively to these checkpoint inhibitors. Moreover, the immunosuppressive pathways for cancer are probably too complicated to achieve optimal outcome with immune checkpoint inhibitors alone. Combining current therapeutic options and immunotherapy-based approaches is being explored as an effective strategy to treat cancer. The use of nanotechnology-based platforms for delivery of immunotherapeutic agents or combination therapy could offer a major advantage over conventional anticancer treatment options. This review highlights the potential role of different nanotechnology-based strategies in improving the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade therapy. Lay abstract Conventional therapies to eradicate cancer include the use of harmful chemotherapy drugs, surgical operations and radiation to destroy cancer cells. These approaches have been used for many years in cancer patients, but they result in many harmful effects, both during and after treatment. To lessen the adverse effects of drugs in patients, technology that uses small vesicles - nanotechnology - has been widely explored. Nanoparticles are small packages that carry a drug to a specific diseased site in the body, while sparing healthy cells, thereby minimizing the harmful effect of the drug in the body. The use of a person's own immune system to improve the body's natural defense against cancer, which is called immunotherapy, has revolutionized the treatment of cancer in recent years. A major advantage of this therapy is that it not only destroys the primary tumor but also helps to stop its spread and chances of returning. Merging different therapies is a mainstay of clinical cancer therapy. To improve the effectiveness, immunotherapy medicines are combined with nanotechnology via a synergistic mode of action. This review article focuses on compiling recent studies and scrutinizing the advantages of combining nanotechnology and immunotherapy to improve the outcome of treatment in cancer patients.

Automated summary

Cancer immunotherapy, combined with nanotechnology-based delivery platforms, shows potential advantages in improving treatment outcomes. Merging different therapies is a key aspect of clinical cancer therapy.