Current evidence and future perspectives of immune-checkpoint inhibitors in unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma

Katsuyuki Hotta, Nobukazu Fujimoto

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

24 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Platinum-based chemotherapy is commonly used as the standard first-line treatment for unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). However, in recent times, immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have led to a paradigm shift. Herein, we review relevant literature and ongoing trials of ICIs used as both first-line and salvage therapies. Specifically, in the Japanese single-arm, phase II trial, the MERIT trial, nivolumab, an antiprogrammed cell death 1 (PD-1) antibody showed favorable efficacy when used as a salvage therapy. Currently, multiple ICI monotherapy or combination therapy trials have been conducted, which could provide further evidence. Among available ICIs, the anti-PD-1 antibody is promising for unresectable MPM, despite the limited efficacy of anti-CTLA4 monotherapy. Ongoing studies will further confirm the potential efficacy of ICIs for MPM, as observed across other malignancies. It is also crucial to identify any clinically useful predictive biomarkers that could reveal ICIs with maximal effects in MPM.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere000461
JournalJournal for immunotherapy of cancer
Volume8
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Feb 24 2020

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology and Allergy
  • Immunology
  • Molecular Medicine
  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Cancer Research

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Current evidence and future perspectives of immune-checkpoint inhibitors in unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this