What is immunotherapy and targeted therapy?

Mar 28, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Qi Zhirong

Introduction

Immunotherapy is a treatment that uses biological agents to stimulate or suppress the immune system, helping the body's own immune system inhibit or destroy cancer cells, infections, and other diseases. Targeted therapy utilizes small-molecule drugs or monoclonal antibodies to control the growth, division, and spread of cancer cells. Types of drugs involved in immunotherapy mainly include immune checkpoint inhibitors.

I. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy involves various types of drugs, primarily including immune checkpoint inhibitors, T-cell transfer therapies, and monoclonal antibodies. Specific drugs include pembrolizumab injection, nivolumab injection, and atezolizumab injection. These drugs are designed to bind to specific targets on cancer cells, enabling the immune system to better recognize and destroy them.

II. Targeted Therapy

Most forms of targeted therapy identify specific proteins involved in tumor growth and systemic spread, allowing targeted drugs to precisely recognize cancer cells and either kill them or inhibit their growth and proliferation. This treatment approach is particularly suitable for blood cancers such as malignant lymphoma and chronic myeloid leukemia. Commonly used targeted therapy drugs include gefitinib tablets, sorafenib tablets, and erlotinib hydrochloride tablets.

Prior to undergoing these treatments, cancer patients should visit a hospital for further medical evaluations to determine the type of cancer, pathological stage, and other specific conditions, so they can follow medical advice and receive appropriate therapeutic interventions.

View All

Why is lung adenocarcinoma considered a less serious type of cancer?

Lung adenocarcinoma may be considered a less severe type of cancer due to various treatment options, relatively longer survival periods, relatively lower malignancy, more opportunities for surgical intervention, and the principle of individualized treatment. Treatment methods for lung adenocarcinoma not only include traditional approaches such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, but also newer therapies such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy. It is advisable in daily life to quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and maintain a balanced diet.

View Full Answer

Is it possible to cure AIDS within 5 years?

HIV may achieve functional cure for certain populations within five years, though widespread eradication remains challenging. Individuals with concerns are advised to seek medical consultation in advance. Current research, including gene editing and immunotherapy, has made breakthroughs, with some clinical trials achieving long-term remission allowing patients to discontinue medication. These new therapies can precisely eliminate viral reservoirs, offering the possibility of a functional cure and potentially benefiting specific groups within the next five years.