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Research and new methods

New immunotherapy: strengthening the body's defences

Immunotherapy helps the immune system recognise and destroy cancer cells. In leukaemia, antibodies, bispecifics, CAR-T and transplants are already used, and new approaches are being studied.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A human T lymphocyte seen under a scanning electron microscope
Figure 1.A T lymphocyte under the electron microscope

01Short answer

Research directions include new targets (such as CD123 and CLL-1 in AML), NK cell therapies, leukaemia vaccines, medicines that release immune "brakes" (checkpoints) and boosting with donor lymphocytes after a transplant. In AML, leukaemia cells share markers with healthy blood stem cells, so finding a safe target is difficult. Immunotherapy side effects differ from those of chemotherapy and need special monitoring.

02Simple explanation

Direct the immune system.

New targets.

In AML: difficult.

Side effects: different.

03Scientific explanation

NCI: immunotherapy is a type of treatment that helps the immune system fight cancer.

NCI: new treatments are tested step by step, from the laboratory to clinical trials; only those proven safe and beneficial become standard care.

04What happens in the body?

NK cells

Natural killer cells.

A gate opening
Figure 2.A gate opening — New immunotherapy: strengthening the body's defences

Checkpoint

A "brake" that limits the immune response.

A teaching signal
Figure 3.A teaching signal — New immunotherapy: strengthening the body's defences

How to read the news

Research news brings hope, but not every advance suits everyone. Look at who it was tested in, at what phase and in how many people.

Talk to your doctor

Show your doctor what you have read; they will explain how it relates to your diagnosis and treatment. Do not change your treatment on your own.

05From research news to a conversation: four steps

Read, check, ask, decide together.

Read — From a trusted source.1ReadFrom a trusted source.
Check — Phase, participants, result.2CheckPhase, participants, result.
Ask — Show your doctor.3AskShow your doctor.
Decide — Together, without rushing.4DecideTogether, without rushing.
SourceA trusted site.
DoctorA personal explanation.
SafetyNot changing treatment yourself.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
NK cellsNatural killer cells.
CheckpointA "brake" that limits the immune response.
How to read the newsResearch news brings hope, but not every advance suits everyone. Look at who it was tested in, at what phase and in how many people.
Talk to your doctorShow your doctor what you have read; they will explain how it relates to your diagnosis and treatment. Do not change your treatment on your own.

07Key terms

Immunotherapy
Treatment that uses the immune system.
NK cell
An immune cell that recognises abnormal cells.
Clinical trial
Testing a new treatment with volunteers.
Evidence
A result confirmed by reliable research.

08Key points

  • Learn.
  • Ask.
  • Monitor.
  • Check the source.
  • Talk to your doctor.

09Frequently asked questions

Is immunotherapy gentler than chemotherapy?

It is different; it can have serious side effects of its own.

Which one suits me?

Your doctor will say, based on the type of disease.

Is this advance right for me?

Only your treating doctor can say, based on your diagnosis, stage and condition.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Is immunotherapy gentler than chemotherapy?

  2. Which one suits me?

  3. Is this advance right for me?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute. Immunotherapy to Treat Cancer
  2. National Cancer Institute. Immunotherapy Side Effects
  3. National Cancer Institute. What Are Clinical Trials?
  4. National Cancer Institute. Phases of Clinical Trials
  5. National Cancer Institute. Using Trusted Resources
  6. American Cancer Society. Clinical Trials
  7. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Step 3: Clinical Research
  8. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Learn About Expanded Access and Other Treatment Options
  9. European Union. Clinical Trials Information System (CTIS) — public search
  10. World Health Organization (WHO). International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP)
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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