Targeting Melanoma with a Novel Tumor-Specific Immune Checkpoint Blocker
Background
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), such as anti-PD-L1 antibodies, have revolutionized cancer immunotherapy by unleashing the body's immune response against tumors. However, their systemic administration can lead to widespread immune activation, resulting in significant off-target toxicities and immune-related adverse events in patients. This study addresses the critical need to develop strategies that localize immune checkpoint blockade specifically to the tumor microenvironment, thereby minimizing systemic side effects while maximizing therapeutic efficacy.