Topic Editors

Dr. Jeonghyun Ahn
Department of Cell Biology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology, Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA

New Advancements in Innate Immunity and Cancer Immunotherapy

Abstract submission deadline
30 September 2025
Manuscript submission deadline
30 November 2025
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1338

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

Cancer immunotherapy, which involves engaging and modifying the patients' immune system, has emerged as a promising treatment alternative for various cancer types. This approach has led to substantial advancements in patient outcomes compared to earlier treatment standards.

Numerous molecular targets have been identified in the field of cancer immunotherapy. One notable example is the immune checkpoint blockade, which focuses on targeting immune suppressors and has proven to be one of the most powerful anti-cancer immunotherapy strategies.

Furthermore, focusing on the innate immune systems is equally intriguing in cancer immunotherapy. Specifically, the pathways involved in cytosolic nucleic acid sensing—particularly cGAS/STING, RIG-I/MAVs, and Toll-like receptors—play a vital role in eliciting antigen-specific immune responses that combat tumors.

This Topic centers on the use of biosensors designed for targeting cancer immunotherapy, leveraging both the innate and adaptive immune systems. We outline the initiatives to examine various targets that can be harnessed to enhance the antitumor immune response. Furthermore, we explore advancements, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of employing biosensors in cancer immunotherapy, aimed at enhancing existing treatment strategies. This Topic invites original research and review articles that are relevant to these interdisciplinary themes.

Dr. Jeonghyun Ahn
Dr. Zhiwei Hu
Topic Editors

Keywords

  • biosensors
  • cancer immunotherapy
  • cytosolic nucleic acid sensing
  • innate immune systems
  • adaptive immune systems

Participating Journals

Journal Name Impact Factor CiteScore Launched Year First Decision (median) APC
Biomedicines
biomedicines
3.9 6.8 2013 17 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Cancers
cancers
4.4 8.8 2009 20.3 Days CHF 2900 Submit
Immuno
immuno
2.5 3.7 2021 31.6 Days CHF 1200 Submit
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
ijms
4.9 9.0 2000 20.5 Days CHF 2900 Submit
Biologics
biologics
- 7.2 2021 23.5 Days CHF 1200 Submit

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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16 pages, 2015 KiB  
Systematic Review
Immunotherapy and Advanced Vulvar Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Survival and Safety Outcomes
by Mauro Francesco Pio Maiorano, Vera Loizzi, Gennaro Cormio and Brigida Anna Maiorano
Cancers 2025, 17(14), 2392; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17142392 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 399
Abstract
Background: Advanced and recurrent vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) presents a major therapeutic challenge with limited treatment options and poor outcomes. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have shown efficacy in other HPV-associated malignancies, but their role in VSCC remains poorly defined due to [...] Read more.
Background: Advanced and recurrent vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) presents a major therapeutic challenge with limited treatment options and poor outcomes. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have shown efficacy in other HPV-associated malignancies, but their role in VSCC remains poorly defined due to the rarity of the disease and limited clinical trial data. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251067565). A comprehensive literature search identified prospective clinical trials evaluating ICIs in patients with advanced, unresectable, recurrent, or metastatic VSCC. The primary outcomes included objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and safety. Risk of bias was assessed using the MINORS tool. Meta-analyses were performed using random-effects models, with subgroup analyses based on PD-L1 status and treatment regimens (monotherapy vs. combination therapy). Results: Six non-randomized single-arm trials involving 181 patients were included. The pooled ORR was 21%, with higher response rates observed in combination therapy (46%) compared to monotherapy (11%), though not statistically significant. Median PFS and OS were 2.2 months and 6.4 months, respectively. ORRs were similar between PD-L1-positive and PD-L1-negative subgroups. A safety analysis showed treatment-related adverse events (AEs) in 73% of patients and grade ≥ 3 AEs in 23%. The incidence of treatment-related death was 3%. Conclusions: ICIs demonstrate modest but durable efficacy and an acceptable safety profile in advanced VSCC. The current evidence supports their use in selected patients. However, response variability and the lack of reliable predictive biomarkers, such as PD-L1 or HPV status, underscore the need for biomarker-driven clinical trials and improved patient selection strategies. Full article
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