Pattern in Protein Production May Be Predictive of Side Effects From Immunotherapy in Patients With Melanoma
Source: The Asco Post, August 2024
An activity pattern in certain genes responsible for building proteins known as spleen tyrosine kinases may predict the occurrence of severe side effects from immunotherapy in patients with melanoma, according to a recent study published by Monson et al in Clinical Cancer Research.
Background
Immunotherapy drugs such as nivolumab and ipilimumab are designed to block checkpoints on the surface of immune T cells and make cancer cells more visible. Over the past decade, checkpoint inhibitors have become a mainstay in the treatment of melanoma.
However, more than 30% of patients with melanoma who receive checkpoint inhibitors develop severe side effects that can compromise their quality of life and ability to continue therapy. Side effects most often involve some type of inflammation—a sign of an overactive immune response—severe skin rashes, diarrhea, or hyperthyroidism. More severe side effects include liver toxicity, colitis, and rheumatoid arthritis.