Perspectives of Immune checkpoint PD-1 inhibitors

Abstract

Several clinical trials of PD-1/PD-L1 signal-blocking agents (PD-1 inhibitors: anti–PD-1 or anti–PD-L1 antibodies) have exhibited dramatic antitumor efficacy in some patients with certain types of solid malignancies. However, the antitumor response rate of monotherapy with PD-1 inhibitors are at most 10~30%. Therefore, for further develop of PD-1 inhibitors, there are still several problems to solve as follows; 1) exploration of best combination therapy, 2) investigating of predictive biomarker for clinical effect, 3) management of immune related side effects and lastly 4) keeping a balance of cost and clinical benefit. We will discuss the perspectives and issues of PD-1 inhibitors.