Rationale for combined blockade of PD-1 and CTLA-4 in advanced head and neck squamous cell cancer—review of current data

Oral Oncol. 2015 Jan;51(1):12-5. doi: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2014.10.010. Epub 2014 Oct 28.

Abstract

Targeted immunotherapy promoting anti-tumor T-cell activity has shown improved survival and durable objective responses in advanced melanoma patients. Data is mounting that concurrent use of ipilimumab and nivolumab has a more pronounced effect than either as monotherapy. Although no completed clinical trials exist for their use in head and neck cancer, preclinical data suggests these therapies would be beneficial in head and neck malignancies as well. Their role in head and neck cancer management is an ongoing research effort.

Keywords: CTLA-4; Head and neck cancer; Immunotherapy; Ipilimumab; Nivolumab; PD-1.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use
  • CTLA-4 Antigen / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • CTLA-4 Antigen / immunology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / drug therapy*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / immunology
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / immunology
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy
  • Ipilimumab
  • Nivolumab
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor / immunology
  • Tumor Escape

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • CTLA-4 Antigen
  • Ipilimumab
  • PDCD1 protein, human
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor
  • Nivolumab