ISY5-4 - Predictive biomarker

Abstract

Immunotherapy, represented by immune checkpoint inhibitor has prolonged overall survival in clinical trial and become the standard of care in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (HNSCC). Yet, as the patient response to the current cancer immunotherapy is limited, identification of biomarkers that can accurately predict responders in the immunotherapy is required, thus optimizing its effectiveness, and avoiding unnecessary cost and especially toxicity in patients unlikely to benefit. Particularly, tumor microenvironment information - such as baseline tumor profiling and localization of immune infiltrates - can stratify patients who can respond to cancer immunotherapies and provide valuable information for choosing optimal treatments. The PD-L1 and PD-L2 expression on tumor and inflammatory cells was predictive of response to anti-PD-1 therapy.The PD-L1 and PD-L2 expression on tumor and inflammatory cells was predictive of response to anti-PD-1 therapy. The RNA-based gene signatures (e.g. the 6-gene IFN-γ signature), that reflect the tumor immune microenvironment, also showed promise in correlation with clinical outcomes. Meanwhile, the ideal biomarker is one that can be evaluated easily, such as that from peripheral blood, and that could help make progress in the field. Furthermore, future research should focus on identification of appropriate biomarkers in combination with immunotherapy and conventional anti-cancer therapy. Here we will review and summarize the current available evidence of predictive biomarkers of the response to immunotherapy and potential challenges in HNSCC.