Biomarkers associated with checkpoint inhibitors

Ann Oncol. 2016 Jul;27(7):1199-206. doi: 10.1093/annonc/mdw181. Epub 2016 Apr 27.

Abstract

Checkpoint inhibitors (CPI), namely anti-CTLA4 and anti-PD1/PD-L1 antibodies, demonstrated efficacy across multiple types of cancer. However, only subgroups of patients respond to these therapies. Additionally, CPI can induce severe immune-related adverse events (irAE). Biomarkers that predict efficacy and toxicity may help define the patients who may benefit the most from these costly and potentially toxic therapies. In this study, we review the main biomarkers that have been associated with the efficacy (pharmacodynamics and clinical benefit) and the toxicity (irAE) of CPIs in patients.

Keywords: biomarkers; cancer; checkpoint inhibitors; immunotherapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Anti-Idiotypic / adverse effects
  • Antibodies, Anti-Idiotypic / therapeutic use
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use
  • B7-H1 Antigen / genetics*
  • B7-H1 Antigen / immunology
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / genetics
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / immunology
  • CTLA-4 Antigen / genetics*
  • CTLA-4 Antigen / immunology
  • Cell Cycle Proteins / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy / adverse effects
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy
  • Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Neoplasms / immunology
  • Neoplasms / therapy
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor / genetics*
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor / immunology

Substances

  • Antibodies, Anti-Idiotypic
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • B7-H1 Antigen
  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • CD274 protein, human
  • CTLA-4 Antigen
  • CTLA4 protein, human
  • Cell Cycle Proteins
  • PDCD1 protein, human
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor