Open AccessSargramostim and immune checkpoint inhibitors: combinatorial therapeutic studies in metastatic melanoma
Author(s) -
Ahmad A. Tarhini,
Ila Joshi,
F. M. Garner
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
immunotherapy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.127
H-Index - 48
eISSN - 1750-7448
pISSN - 1750-743X
DOI - 10.2217/imt-2021-0119
Subject(s) - immune system , ipilimumab , medicine , melanoma , immune checkpoint , cancer , immunotherapy , adverse effect , immunology , cancer research , pharmacology
The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with metastatic melanoma generates clinical benefit, including improved survival. Yet disease resistance and immune-related adverse events persist as unmet needs. Sargramostim, a yeast-derived recombinant human GM-CSF, has shown clinical activity against diverse solid tumors, including metastatic melanoma. Here we review the use of sargramostim for treatment of advanced melanoma. Potential sargramostim applications in melanoma draw on the unique ability of GM-CSF to link innate and adaptive immune responses. We review preclinical and translational data describing the mechanism of action of sargramostim and synergy with immune checkpoint inhibitors to enhance efficacy and reduce treatment-related toxicity.