Current status and perspectives of cancer immunotherapy

Abstract

Cancer immunotherapy has emerged as the fourth major treatment method for various cancers and has become a central component in patient care. Its approach involves targeting tumor cells by activating immune cells already present in the body or using genetically modified immune cells. Significantly, if it elicits responses targeted at tumor cells while sparing normal cells, it can serve as an excellent treatment modality with fewer adverse effects. Over time, several cancer immunotherapy methods have been developed and applied in clinical settings, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, genetically modified T cells, and cancer vaccines. However, their effectiveness has shown limitations, prompting continuous efforts to improve anti-tumor immune responses. Recently, researchers have made progress in developing cancer immunotherapies for pediatric cancers, particularly pediatric solid tumors. While these treatments are still immature compared to those for adult cancers, ongoing scientific and medical research is generating more evidence, making them potentially promising strategies for managing intractable and recurrent cancers in children. This study aims to provide an overview and discussion of current status and future prospects of cancer immunotherapies, focusing on pediatric cancers.