Targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis in multiple myeloma: a dream or a reality?

Blood. 2017 Jan 19;129(3):275-279. doi: 10.1182/blood-2016-08-731885. Epub 2016 Dec 5.

Abstract

The programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) pathway is a negative regulator of immune activation that is upregulated in multiple myeloma and is a critical component of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Expression is increased in advanced disease and in the presence of bone marrow stromal cells. PD-1/PD-L1 blockade is associated with tumor regression in several malignancies, but single-agent activity is limited in myeloma patients. Combination therapy involving strategies to expand myeloma-specific T cells and T-cell activation via PD-1/PD-L1 blockade are currently being explored.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • B7-H1 Antigen / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Lymphocyte Activation
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy / methods*
  • Multiple Myeloma / drug therapy*
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction / drug effects*
  • Tumor Microenvironment / immunology

Substances

  • B7-H1 Antigen
  • PDCD1 protein, human
  • Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor