Advances in Molecular Mechanisms and Predictive Biomarkers in Cancer Immunotherapy

Dear Colleagues,

Since their initial approval for advanced melanoma 15 years ago, immune checkpoint inhibitors have become a standard treatment option for most solid tumors, both as a standalone therapy and in combination with chemotherapy or targeted agents. Despite the growing range of therapeutic indications, long-term follow-up studies have confirmed that the majority of patients will not benefit from immune checkpoint blockade. Intensive research focused on identifying reliable biomarkers predicting response to immune checkpoint inhibitors and survival, as well as the risk of immune-related adverse events (irAEs). The areas of investigation involved intrinsic genetic and phenotypic biomarkers or extrinsic factors, primarily concerning the effects of concomitant medications. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests a strong predictive potential for developing mild to moderate irAEs or organ-specific immune-related toxicities. These novel findings unveil a complex interplay between host reactogenicity and the effects of immunotherapy, which has not been comprehensively explained. This Special Issue of Biomolecules will focus on the current knowledge of molecular mechanisms underlying immune checkpoint inhibitor response, resistance, and toxicity, as well as the involved predictive biomarkers.  We welcome contributions of original research, timely reviews, and commentary that shed light on ongoing efforts to improve the therapeutic index and outcomes of immune checkpoint blockade for cancer patients.

Dr. Fabrizio Nelli
Dr. Carlo Signorelli
Dr. Gloria Pessina
Guest Editors

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