The interplay between neoantigens and immune cells in sarcomas treated with checkpoint inhibition
A study entitled “The interplay between neoantigens and immune cells in sarcomas treated with checkpoint inhibition,” investigates the variables of the immune system that influence immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) therapy resistance or immune escape. Tumors can apply “brakes” to the body’s immune system, which is then not able to attack the tumor. ICI therapy allows the brakes to be released allowing the immune system to attack the tumor again. The investigators analyzed the tumors of 31 sarcoma patients treated with a specific ICI called pembrolizumab. They then used methods to investigate key immune properties, such as neoantigens (a new protein that occurs when a mutation occurs in tumor DNA) and the immune cells in the tumor. The results suggest that high quality neoantigens with specific immune cells are markers of progression-free survival (PFS). These results can inform future trials that may lead to improved outcomes for sarcoma patients treated with ICI.