News from ASCO 2017

Fehm: Both. Several studies have been presented at the ASCO meeting investigating the efficacy of PDL-1 / PD antibodies as part of palliative treatment. The response rates were low, ranging from 5 to 25% depending on the definition of treatment benefit and pretreatment. Nevertheless, a subset of these patients responds well and is still under investigational drug treatment. Therefore, the major challenge will be to find valid biomarkers to identify those patients who will derive benefit from checkpoint inhibitors. In addition, we have to develop strategies to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy, e.g. by adding radiotherapy or cytotoxic treatment. This will increase antigen release of tumor cells and may boost the immune system.