B cell depletion or absence does not impede anti-tumor activity of PD-1 inhibitors

ConclusionsThe degree of tumor infiltrating B cell content is not associated with response to anti-PD-1 inhibitors in melanoma. PD-1 inhibitors cause tumor shrinkage in murine cancer models even when B cells are absent or are depleted. PD-1 inhibitors are likely to be active in patients with impaired B cell function, such as patients undergoing B cell depletion with drugs including rituximab for conditions such as B cell malignancies or autoimmune disorders.

http://link.springer.com/10.1186/s40425-019-0613-1

Source: Journal for Immunotherapy of Cancer - June 13, 2019 Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research