In this article, we will discuss Immunotherapy (2). So, let’s get started.
Applications in Cancer Treatment:
Immunotherapy has shown success in treating various cancers, including melanoma, lung cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, and certain types of lymphoma and leukemia.
It is often used when other treatments have not been effective or in combination with other therapies.
Immune Checkpoints:
Checkpoint proteins such as PD-1 and CTLA-4 are natural brakes that prevent the immune system from attacking normal cells. Checkpoint inhibitors release these brakes, allowing the immune system to target cancer cells.
CAR T-cell Therapy:
CAR T-cell therapy involves extracting a patient’s T cells, genetically modifying them to express a receptor specific to cancer cells, and then infusing the modified cells back into the patient.
Side Effects:
Immunotherapy can cause immune-related side effects, which may affect various organs. Common side effects include fatigue, skin rashes, diarrhea, and inflammation of the lungs or liver. These side effects are generally manageable but require close monitoring.