Publication at Second Faculty of Medicine |
2016
Abstract
Current advances in the field of molecular immunology are leading to a better understanding of interactions between the immune system and cancer, enabling identification of new targets in the immune system used in the development of new anticancer therapeutic agents. Immunotherapy, in conjunction with conventional therapy, is emerging as another promising cancer treatment modality.
In this article, we discuss the general principles of immunotherapy and provide a summary of approved biological drugs used in the treatment of gastrointestinal tract malignancies. We then overview the immunotherapeutic approaches of current clinical trials in advanced phase, which are likely to enter treatment protocols in this area in the near future.