The role of neoantigens in tumor immunotherapy

Biomed Pharmacother. 2022 Jul:151:113118. doi: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113118. Epub 2022 May 24.

Abstract

Tumor neoantigens are aberrant polypeptides produced by tumor cells as a result of genomic mutations. They are also tumor-specific antigens (TSA). Neoantigens are more immunogenic than tumor-related antigens and do not induce autoimmunity. Based on the rapid development of bioinformatics and the continuous update of sequencing technology, cancer immunotherapy with tumor neoantigens has made promising breakthroughs and progress. In this review, the generation, prediction, and identification of novel antigens, as well as the individualized treatments of neoantigens, were first introduced. Secondly, the mechanism of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Immunotherapy (CAR-T) therapy and immune checkpoint blockade therapy in the treatment of tumors were outlined, and the three treatment methods were compared. Thirdly, the application of neoantigens in CAR-T therapy and PD-1/PD-L1 blockade therapy was briefly described. The benefits of the neoantigen vaccines over common vaccines were summarized as well. Finally, the prospect of neoantigen therapy was presented.

Keywords: CAR-T therapy; Neoantigen; Neoantigen vaccine; PD-1/PD-L1 blocking therapy; Prediction and identification.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antigens, Neoplasm
  • Cancer Vaccines* / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
  • Immunotherapy / methods
  • Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Receptors, Chimeric Antigen*

Substances

  • Antigens, Neoplasm
  • Cancer Vaccines
  • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
  • Receptors, Chimeric Antigen