Immunotherapy, heralded as a transformative approach in oncology, particularly through the deployment of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies, and cytokine-based therapeutics, has significantly altered the landscape of cancer treatment by harnessing the host immune system. However, this therapeutic revolution is often accompanied by immunotherapy-associated adverse events (irAEs), which can affect multiple organ systems and potentially hamper the overall therapeutic outcomes. The complexity of irAEs, arising from mechanisms such as cytokine dysregulation, autoreactive T cell activation, and autoantibody production, remains a significant challenge. The variability in the incidence and severity of irAEs, depending on the specific immunotherapy employed, further complicates their management. For example, anti-CTLA-4 agents have been linked with colitis and endocrinopathies, while anti-PD-1/PD-L1 agents are more commonly associated with conditions like myocarditis, thyroid dysfunction, and pneumonitis. Despite advancements, the need for a deeper mechanistic understanding of these adverse events persists, particularly regarding the underlying predictive biomarkers and novel therapeutic targets.
This Research Topic aims to propel research efforts in elucidating the molecular and cellular underpinnings of immunotherapy-associated adverse events. It seeks to foster exploration and development of therapeutic agents and strategies that can effectively address irAEs without diminishing antitumor efficacy. By advancing the understanding and management of irAEs, the ultimate goal is to enhance the safety and effectiveness of immunotherapy in cancer treatment, enabling more precise and personalized therapeutic approaches.
To gather further insights into the intricacies and management of irAEs, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Immune-related molecular and cellular mechanisms of irAEs
- Predictive biomarkers and diagnostic tools for irAEs
- Clinical management and challenges of irAEs
- Preclinical and translational animal models for irAEs such as colitis, pneumonitis, endocrinopathies, and myocarditis
- Potential therapeutic strategies for irAEs, such as cytokine blockade, JAK-STAT inhibitors, regulatory T cell modulation, combination therapies, or personalized treatment approaches
- Development of immunotherapies with reduced irAEs and enhanced efficacy, including novel immune checkpoint targets, bispecific antibodies, and engineered T cells
Contributors are invited to submit original research, reviews, and perspectives that address these themes, aiming to advance the understanding of irAEs and propel the development of safer and more effective immunotherapies.
Keywords: Immunotherapy, Adverse Events, Biomarkers, Cytokines, Therapeutic Strategies
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
