Tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte therapy: Clinical aspects and future developments in this breakthrough cancer treatment

Bioessays. 2023 Jul;45(7):e2200204. doi: 10.1002/bies.202200204. Epub 2023 May 11.

Abstract

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapy is a promising approach for treating refractory or advanced solid cancers by using autologous TILs harvested from cancer tissues. Despite the heterogeneity of cancer, TIL therapy can potentially produce a positive therapeutic response, including complete remission. After decades of research on lymphocyte functions, culture/expansion methods, therapeutic protocols, and multiple clinical trials, TIL therapy has finally reached a stage where it can be formally approved for clinical use. TIL therapy is expected to hold a unique position among anti-cancer therapeutic options as a standard intervention. To successfully introduce TIL therapy into clinical settings, there is a need to expand therapeutic indications and set up the best protocols for cancer tissue sampling and manufacturing, and related clinical trials. Moreover, studies on next-generation TIL therapy have already begun, and post-approval real-world data will promote and support further research.

Keywords: adoptive cell therapy; t lymphocytes; tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes; tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes therapy.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy, Adoptive / methods
  • Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating*
  • Neoplasms* / therapy