The effect of different concentrations of anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1 antibodies on the activity of immune system cells in patients with non-small cell lung cancer

Abstract

Introduction. The last century abounded in numerous scientific discoveries that allowed us to understand the operation and functioning of one of the most complex human systems, i.e. the immune system. One of the most important discoveries was the work of Prof. James Alison and Prof. Tasuko Honjo on the development of anti-cancer therapy inhibiting negative immune regulation (PD-1 and CTLA-4 molecules). Knowledge of these molecules’ action and their huge role in inhibiting immune system activity, e.g. during cancer growth, created the basis for the development of specific monoclonal antibodies, without which clinicians from many specialties cannot imagine modern cancer therapies. However, side effects of these therapies are still quite troublesome.To minimize them, it would be necessary to reduce the dose while still maintaining the effective level of anticancer activity of immune system cells. 

Material and methods. In this study, 24-hour culture of PBMCs isolated from blood and bronchoaspirate with various concentrations of nivolumab or atezolizumab was performed. Expression of the individual activation markers on cultured cells was compared to the expression of these markers on cells not subjected to cell culture. 

Results and conclusions. The outcomes of our research may indicate that individualized dosages of anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1 antibodies may contribute to the effective activation of immune system cells while minimizing the side effects of the therapy.