Current Therapy in Cancer: Advances, Challenges, and Future Directions
Armila Sen1, Komal Kumar1, Shaheen Khan1, Priyanka Pathak1, Arjun Singh2*
1Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences,
Bhagwant University, Sikar Road, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305004, India.
2Department of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College,
Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States.
*Corresponding Author Email: arjunphar@gmail.com
ABSTRACT:
Cancer continues to be a global health challenge, with significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Over the years, substantial progress has been made in understanding the biology of cancer, leading to the development of diverse therapeutic approaches. This article provides a comprehensive overview of current therapies in cancer, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and emerging treatment modalities. We discuss the principles, mechanisms of action, clinical applications, and limitations of these therapeutic strategies. Moreover, we highlight the challenges faced in cancer treatment, such as drug resistance, adverse effects, and the need for personalized medicine. Finally, we explore the promising advancements and future directions in cancer therapy, including precision medicine, combination therapies, novel drug delivery systems, and immunotherapeutic strategies. Understanding the current landscape of cancer therapy and exploring innovative approaches will pave the way for improved patient outcomes and a brighter future in the fight against cancer.
KEYWORDS: Therapy, surgery, Radiation therapy, Chemotherapy, Targeted therapy, Immunotherapy, Precision medicine, Drug resistance.
INTRODUCTION:
Cancer remains a significant global health challenge, impacting millions of lives worldwide. It is a complex disease characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells, posing substantial morbidity and mortality1. However, in recent decades, remarkable progress has been made in understanding the underlying biology of cancer, leading to the development of a wide array of therapeutic strategies. These advancements have significantly improved patient outcomes and have become critical in managing and combating cancer. The importance of current therapies in cancer management cannot be overstated2-5. These therapies play a pivotal role in the diagnosis, treatment, and overall care of cancer patients.
They aim to eradicate or control cancer cells, alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and increase the chances of long-term survival. The effectiveness of these therapies has contributed to the decline in cancer-related deaths and has provided hope to patients and their families6-8.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current therapies available for cancer treatment. By exploring the principles, mechanisms of action, clinical applications, and limitations of various therapeutic approaches, we seek to shed light on the diverse strategies used in managing this complex disease. Additionally, we will discuss the challenges encountered in cancer treatment, such as drug resistance and adverse effects, highlighting the need for continuous research and innovation9. The structure of this article will encompass several key sections. Firstly, we will delve into the surgical approaches used in cancer therapy, discussing the objectives, techniques, and advancements in surgical interventions. Following that, we will explore the role of radiation therapy as a vital treatment modality, encompassing different delivery methods and technological advancements in radiation oncology10.
Chemotherapy, as a cornerstone of cancer treatment, will be thoroughly examined, including the various drug classes, mechanisms of action, and strategies to overcome drug resistance. Furthermore, we will delve into targeted therapy, which has revolutionized cancer treatment by focusing on specific molecular targets implicated in cancer growth and progression. The advent of immunotherapy will also be explored, as it harnesses the body's immune system to fight cancer cells, leading to significant breakthroughs in treatment outcomes. In addition to established therapies, we will explore emerging treatment modalities that hold promise for the future of cancer treatment. Precision medicine, with its emphasis on tailored treatment based on individual genetic profiles, will be discussed alongside novel drug delivery systems, combination therapies, and emerging immunotherapeutic strategies11-14.
It is essential to acknowledge the challenges and limitations encountered in cancer therapy, including drug resistance, adverse effects, tumour heterogeneity, and economic barriers. By understanding these challenges, we can strive for innovative solutions and develop strategies to address them effectively. Lastly, we will delve into future directions and the potential of cutting-edge advancements. We will explore the role of precision medicine, the integration of biomarkers, and the importance of interdisciplinary research and collaboration. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of cancer therapy, the challenges we face, and the promising future prospects that lie ahead. In conclusion, the current therapies available for cancer treatment have significantly improved patient outcomes and have become crucial in managing this complex disease. By understanding the principles, mechanisms, and limitations of these therapies, we can work towards enhancing their effectiveness, overcoming challenges, and ultimately advancing the field of cancer treatment. Through continued research, collaboration, and innovation, we can strive to provide optimal care and improve the lives of those affected by cancer15-18.
METHODS:
Materials:
To collect information regarding current therapy in cancer, a comprehensive literature search was conducted. Peer-reviewed journal articles were examined, and electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar were utilized. The aim was to gather data on different cancer treatment strategy containing safety and precautions, which have traditionally been employed in the treatment of cancer chemotherapy, and radiotherapy from a pharmacological importance.
1. Surgical Approaches in Cancer Therapy:
Cancer surgery is a fundamental component of the multidisciplinary management of cancer and plays a crucial role in the treatment of various malignancies. The principles and objectives of cancer surgery encompass the complete removal of the tumour, assessment of the tumour stage, and, in some cases, the resection of adjacent lymph nodes. This section will explore the different surgical techniques employed in cancer therapy, including curative, palliative, and reconstructive surgeries. Additionally, we will discuss the role of minimally invasive surgery and robotic surgery, as well as the advancements in surgical technologies and their impact on patient outcomes19.
The principles and objectives of cancer surgery revolve around the complete removal of the tumour and surrounding tissues. Curative surgery aims to eliminate the cancerous tumour and achieve negative surgical margins, meaning no cancer cells are detected at the edges of the resected tissue. This approach is primarily employed in localized tumours and can lead to a potential cure. However, in cases where the tumour has spread beyond its original site or metastasized to distant organs, curative surgery alone may not be sufficient, necessitating the use of other treatment modalities such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy20.
Palliative surgery, on the other hand, focuses on improving the quality of life for patients with advanced-stage cancers by relieving symptoms and reducing tumour burden. This may involve debulking the tumour to alleviate pain or obstruction, removing metastatic lesions, or performing procedures to manage complications caused by the cancer. Palliative surgery aims to enhance patient comfort and overall well-being while providing supportive care. Reconstructive surgery plays a vital role in restoring form and function after cancer surgery. In cases where the tumour necessitates extensive tissue removal, reconstructive procedures can help reconstruct the affected area using various techniques, such as tissue grafts, flaps, or implants. Reconstruction not only enhances the physical appearance but also improves patient satisfaction and psychological well-being. The advent of minimally invasive surgery has revolutionized cancer surgery by offering numerous advantages over traditional open surgery. Minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy or thoracoscopy, utilize small incisions and specialized instruments to access the tumor site. This approach offers reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, and improved cosmetic outcomes compared to open surgery. Moreover, minimally invasive surgery is associated with a lower risk of complications, including infection and blood loss, making it an attractive option for many cancer patients21-23.
Robotic surgery, a subset of minimally invasive surgery, has gained popularity in recent years. Robotic surgical systems allow for enhanced precision, dexterity, and visualization, enabling surgeons to perform complex procedures with increased accuracy. The robotic arms mimic the surgeon's hand movements, translating them into precise movements of the surgical instruments. This technology has particularly found applications in urologic, gynecologic, and gastrointestinal cancers. Robotic surgery offers advantages such as reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and improved oncologic outcomes. Advancements in surgical technologies have significantly impacted patient outcomes in cancer therapy. The use of advanced imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET), enables more precise preoperative planning and staging. Intraoperative technologies, such as intraoperative imaging, fluorescence-guided surgery, and image-guided navigation systems, aid surgeons in real-time visualization and accurate tumor localization during the procedure. These advancements facilitate more precise tumor removal, decrease the risk of leaving behind residual cancer cells, and improve overall surgical outcomes24.
In conclusion, surgical approaches in cancer therapy encompass curative, palliative, and reconstructive surgeries, each with specific objectives and principles. The introduction of minimally invasive surgery and robotic surgery has revolutionized cancer surgery, offering numerous advantages such as reduced postoperative morbidity, faster recovery, and improved cosmetic outcomes. Furthermore, advancements in surgical technologies, including advanced imaging and intraoperative techniques, have enhanced the precision and accuracy of tumor resection, leading to improved patient outcomes. Continued research and innovation in surgical approaches hold the potential to further refine and optimize cancer surgery, improving both the oncologic and functional outcomes for patients25.
2. Radiation Therapy in Cancer Treatment:
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is a fundamental component of cancer treatment. It utilizes high-energy radiation to destroy or damage cancer cells, inhibiting their ability to grow and divide. This section will delve into the basics of radiation therapy, including the types of radiation, mechanisms of action, and delivery methods. We will explore external beam radiation therapy, brachytherapy, and stereotactic radiosurgery. Additionally, we will discuss the integration of radiation therapy with surgery and chemotherapy and highlight advancements in radiation therapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and proton therapy. Radiation therapy employs different types of radiation, including photons (X-rays and gamma rays) and particles (electrons, protons, and heavy ions). These high-energy beams are directed at the tumor site to deliver precise and controlled doses of radiation. The mechanisms of action of radiation therapy involve damaging the DNA within cancer cells, thereby disrupting their ability to divide and proliferate. Ultimately, this leads to cell death or a halt in tumor growth26.
External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) is the most used form of radiation therapy. It involves delivering radiation from a machine outside the body, targeting the tumor site while sparing surrounding healthy tissues. EBRT can be administered using different techniques, such as three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT), which shapes the radiation beams to match the tumor's size and shape. Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) takes this a step further by modulating the intensity of the radiation beams, allowing for even greater precision in targeting the tumor while minimizing exposure to nearby normal tissues. Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) utilizes imaging technology, such as CT scans or MRI, to precisely locate the tumor before each treatment session, further enhancing accuracy. Brachytherapy, also known as internal radiation therapy, involves the placement of radioactive sources directly into or near the tumor. This approach allows for the delivery of high doses of radiation to the tumor while limiting exposure to healthy tissues. Brachytherapy can be performed using permanent implants, such as radioactive seeds, or temporary implants, where the radioactive sources are inserted temporarily and then removed27.
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a specialized technique that delivers a highly focused and precise radiation dose to small tumors or specific areas within the brain. Despite the name, SRS is a non-surgical procedure that employs multiple beams of radiation converging on the tumor from different angles. It is typically completed in a single session or a few sessions, and it is highly effective for treating brain metastases or other small intracranial tumors. Radiation therapy is often integrated with other treatment modalities, such as surgery and chemotherapy, to enhance therapeutic outcomes. It may be administered before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) to shrink tumors, making them more amenable to surgical resection. Alternatively, radiation therapy may be employed after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to target any residual cancer cells and reduce the risk of local recurrence. In some cases, radiation therapy is combined with chemotherapy, a treatment approach known as chemoradiation. This combined approach can synergistically enhance the effectiveness of both treatments and is commonly used in the management of certain cancers, such as head and neck cancer and cervical cancer28.
Advancements in radiation therapy techniques have significantly improved its precision and effectiveness. IMRT, mentioned earlier, allows for highly conformal radiation delivery, enabling the precise shaping of radiation beams to match the tumor's shape. This technique minimizes radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissues and critical structures, reducing side effects and improving treatment outcomes. Another emerging technique is proton therapy, which utilizes proton beams instead of X-rays or photons. Protons have unique physical properties that enable precise targeting of the tumor while minimizing radiation exposure to healthy tissues. Proton therapy is particularly advantageous in treating pediatric cancers and tumors located near critical structures. In conclusion, radiation therapy is a vital treatment modality in cancer therapy. It utilizes high-energy radiation to target and destroy cancer cells, inhibiting their ability to grow and divide. With different types of radiation and delivery methods available, such as EBRT, brachytherapy, and SRS, radiation therapy can be tailored to individual patients and tumor characteristics. Integration with surgery and chemotherapy further enhances treatment outcomes. Advancements in radiation therapy techniques, including IMRT and proton therapy, offer increased precision, reduced side effects, and improved patient outcomes. Continued research and innovation in radiation therapy hold the potential to further refine and optimize its use, ensuring the best possible outcomes for cancer patients16-28.
3. Chemotherapy in Cancer Management:
Chemotherapy is a cornerstone of cancer treatment that utilizes drugs to kill or inhibit the growth of cancer cells. It plays a critical role in the management of various types of cancer and can be administered as a primary treatment or in combination with other modalities, such as surgery and radiation therapy. This section will provide an overview of chemotherapy, including its mechanism of action, different classes of drugs, clinical applications, challenges, side effects, and strategies to overcome drug resistance and enhance efficacy. Chemotherapy works by targeting rapidly dividing cells, which are characteristic of cancer cells. It interferes with the cell cycle, DNA replication, or cellular processes necessary for cell survival and proliferation. The drugs used in chemotherapy can be classified into several categories based on their mechanisms of action, including alkylating agents, antimetabolites, topoisomerase inhibitors, mitotic inhibitors, and targeted therapy drugs6-8.
Alkylating agents, such as cyclophosphamide and cisplatin, work by adding alkyl groups to the DNA molecule, causing cross-linking and preventing DNA replication and cell division. Antimetabolites, such as methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil, interfere with DNA synthesis by inhibiting key enzymes involved in nucleotide synthesis. Topoisomerase inhibitors, like etoposide and doxorubicin, disrupt the enzyme topoisomerase, which is essential for DNA replication and repair. Mitotic inhibitors, such as paclitaxel and vincristine, target the mitotic spindle apparatus, preventing proper chromosome segregation during cell division. Targeted therapy drugs, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies, specifically target molecular pathways or receptors involved in cancer growth and progression. Chemotherapy drugs have diverse clinical applications and are tailored to specific cancer types and stages. They may be used as a primary treatment in cases where surgery or radiation therapy is not feasible, such as in advanced or metastatic cancers. Chemotherapy can also be administered as neoadjuvant therapy before surgery to shrink tumors, making them more amenable to surgical resection. Adjuvant chemotherapy is given after surgery to eliminate any residual cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. Additionally, chemotherapy can be used in combination with other treatment modalities to enhance treatment outcomes. For instance, concurrent chemoradiation combines chemotherapy and radiation therapy to maximize tumor control28-33.
Despite its efficacy, chemotherapy is associated with several challenges and side effects. One of the significant challenges is drug resistance, whereby cancer cells become resistant to the effects of chemotherapy, leading to treatment failure. Resistance mechanisms can involve alterations in drug metabolism, increased drug efflux, enhanced DNA repair, or changes in drug targets. Overcoming drug resistance requires a multifaceted approach, including the development of novel drugs, combination therapies, and personalized treatment strategies based on the molecular profile of the tumor. Chemotherapy is also known for its side effects, which can significantly impact patients' quality of life. The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, anemia, and immunosuppression. Gastrointestinal toxicity, such as mucositis and diarrhea, and hematological toxicity, such as neutropenia and thrombocytopenia, are also prevalent. Additionally, chemotherapy can cause long-term effects, such as infertility, cardiotoxicity, and cognitive impairment. However, it is essential to note that not all patients experience the same side effects, and supportive care measures, such as antiemetic medications and growth factor support, can help alleviate some of these effects18.
Efforts to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and mitigate its side effects are ongoing. Researchers are exploring novel drug delivery systems, such as nanoparticles and liposomes, to improve drug targeting and reduce systemic toxicity. Combination therapies, which involve combining chemotherapy with other agents, such as immunotherapy or targeted therapy, are being investigated to enhance treatment response and overcome drug resistance. Personalized medicine approaches, incorporating genomic profiling and biomarker identification, hold the promise of tailoring chemotherapy regimens to individual patients, maximizing efficacy, and minimizing toxicity20-28.
In conclusion, chemotherapy plays a vital role in cancer management, either as a primary treatment or in combination with other modalities. Different classes of chemotherapy drugs target various cellular processes involved in cancer cell growth and proliferation. Despite its effectiveness, chemotherapy presents challenges such as drug resistance and significant side effects. Overcoming drug resistance and enhancing efficacy require a multifaceted approach, including the development of novel drugs and personalized treatment strategies. Ongoing research aims to improve drug delivery systems, explore combination therapies, and implement personalized medicine approaches. Ultimately, the goal is to optimize chemotherapy's therapeutic benefits while minimizing its associated side effects, ensuring the best possible outcomes for cancer patients30-33.
4. Targeted Therapy in Cancer Treatment:
In recent years, targeted therapy has emerged as a promising approach in cancer treatment. Unlike conventional chemotherapy that affects both cancer cells and healthy cells, targeted therapy aims to selectively inhibit specific molecules or pathways involved in cancer growth and progression. This section will provide an overview of targeted therapy, including the principles and rationale behind its use, different targeted agents, their mechanisms of action, clinical applications in specific cancer types, as well as the challenges and limitations associated with this approach.The principle behind targeted therapy lies in the molecular understanding of cancer biology. Researchers have identified specific molecules, such as receptors, enzymes, or signaling pathways, that play crucial roles in cancer development and progression. By targeting these molecules, it is possible to disrupt the abnormal cellular processes driving tumor growth while minimizing damage to normal tissues. Targeted therapy is based on the concept of personalized medicine, where treatment decisions are guided by the molecular profile of an individual's tumor18.
Targeted agents encompass a wide range of drugs and treatment modalities. Small molecule inhibitors, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), work by blocking the activity of specific enzymes, often mutated or overexpressed in cancer cells, which are responsible for aberrant cell signaling and tumor growth. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), on the other hand, bind to specific molecules on the surface of cancer cells or in the surrounding microenvironment, either blocking their function or stimulating an immune response against the tumor. Other targeted therapies include immune checkpoint inhibitors, which enhance the body's immune response against cancer cells, and hormone therapies, which interfere with hormone signaling in hormone-dependent cancers.The mechanisms of action of targeted agents are diverse and depend on the specific target and drug. For example, TKIs block the activity of tyrosine kinases, enzymes involved in intracellular signaling pathways that regulate cell growth and survival. By inhibiting these kinases, the excessive Signaling that drives tumor growth can be suppressed. Monoclonal antibodies, on the other hand, can bind to receptors on cancer cells, preventing the interaction with growth factors or other ligands necessary for cell proliferation. They can also trigger immune-mediated cytotoxicity, leading to the destruction of cancer cells30-36.
Targeted therapy has demonstrated remarkable clinical efficacy in several cancer types. For instance, HER2-targeted therapy, using drugs such as trastuzumab and pertuzumab, has revolutionized the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer. These drugs specifically target the HER2 receptor, which is overexpressed in a subset of breast cancers, leading to improved outcomes and increased survival rates. Similarly, BRAF inhibitors have shown significant activity in melanoma patients harboring BRAF mutations, while epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors have proven effective in the treatment of EGFR-mutant lung cancers. These examples highlight the importance of identifying the appropriate target and molecular subtype of the cancer to guide targeted therapy selection.Despite the successes, targeted therapy also faces challenges and limitations. One of the primary challenges is the development of resistance. Cancer cells can acquire mechanisms to bypass the targeted pathway or develop new molecular alterations that render the therapy ineffective. Additionally, not all patients respond to targeted therapy, as its efficacy is often limited to specific subsets of patients with particular molecular alterations. Biomarker identification and patient selection become crucial in optimizing the benefits of targeted therapy33.
Another limitation is the emergence of adverse effects associated with targeted agents. Although these drugs are designed to selectively inhibit cancer-specific targets, they can still affect normal cells and tissues that express the target to a lesser extent. This off-target activity can lead to side effects, including skin rash, gastrointestinal disturbances, cardiovascular complications, and immune-related adverse events. Close monitoring and management of these side effects are necessary for ensuring patient safety and treatment compliance. In conclusion, targeted therapy represents a promising approach in cancer treatment by selectively inhibiting specific molecules or pathways involved in tumor growth and progression. It is based on the principles of personalized medicine and aims to maximize efficacy while minimizing damage to normal tissues. Different targeted agents, including small molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and hormone therapies, have demonstrated clinical efficacy in specific cancer types. However, challenges such as drug resistance, limited patient response, and potential adverse effects need to be addressed. Ongoing research aims to overcome these limitations, refine patient selection criteria, and identify novel targets and treatment strategies to further advance targeted therapy in cancer treatment34-36.
DISCUSSION:
Immunotherapy in Cancer Treatment:
Immunotherapy has emerged as a transformative approach in cancer treatment, harnessing the body's immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cells. This section will provide an introduction to immunotherapy and its different modalities, including immune checkpoint inhibitors and CAR-T cell therapy. We will explore the mechanisms of action, clinical applications, immune-related adverse events, and management strategies associated with immunotherapy. Furthermore, we will discuss the future prospects of immunotherapeutic strategies and the potential of combination approaches with other therapies. Immunotherapy aims to stimulate or enhance the body's immune response against cancer cells. It recognizes that the immune system has the inherent ability to distinguish between normal and abnormal cells, including cancer cells, and mount an immune response to eliminate them. However, cancer cells can evade immune surveillance through various mechanisms, such as downregulation of immune checkpoints or suppression of immune effector cells. Immunotherapy seeks to overcome these immune escape mechanisms and restore the immune system's ability to recognize and eliminate cancer cells6-8.
One of the most successful immunotherapeutic approaches is immune checkpoint inhibitors. Immune checkpoints are molecules on immune cells and cancer cells that regulate immune responses. Cancer cells can exploit these checkpoints to suppress the immune system's anti-tumor activity. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as antibodies targeting programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) or its ligand PD-L1, block the interaction between immune checkpoints, such as PD-1 on T cells and PD-L1 on cancer cells, thereby unleashing the immune response against cancer cells. These inhibitors have shown remarkable efficacy in a variety of cancer types, including melanoma, lung cancer, and renal cell carcinoma10.
Chimeric antigen receptors (CAR-T):
CAR-T cell therapy is another promising modality of immunotherapy. It involves modifying a patient's own T cells to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) that specifically recognize tumor-associated antigens. CARs combine the antigen recognition capability of an antibody with the T cell's effector functions, enabling targeted killing of cancer cells. CAR-T cell therapy has demonstrated impressive results in hematological malignancies, such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia and certain types of lymphomas. Ongoing research aims to expand the application of CAR-T cell therapy to solid tumors and improve its efficacy and safety profile6.
While immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, it is not without challenges. One significant challenge is immune-related adverse events (irAEs) caused by an overactive immune response. When the immune system is stimulated, it can attack healthy tissues and organs, leading to a range of side effects. Common irAEs include skin rash, colitis, hepatitis, pneumonitis, and endocrine dysfunction. Early recognition and appropriate management of these side effects are essential to ensure patient safety and treatment continuation. The future prospects of immunotherapy lie in combination approaches and personalized treatment strategies. Combining immunotherapy with other treatment modalities, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or other immunotherapeutic agents, has the potential to synergistically enhance treatment efficacy. Additionally, the identification of biomarkers and molecular signatures can help select patients who are most likely to benefit from immunotherapy. Understanding the tumor microenvironment and the interactions between immune cells and cancer cells will aid in developing novel immunotherapeutic strategies and optimizing patient responses10-19-37.
CONCLUSION:
In conclusion, immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment by leveraging the immune system's capabilities to recognize and eliminate cancer cells. Immune checkpoint inhibitors and CAR-T cell therapy are among the most promising immunotherapeutic approaches. While immunotherapy has shown remarkable efficacy, irAEs remain a concern and necessitate careful monitoring and management. The future of immunotherapy lies in combination approaches, personalized treatment strategies, and further understanding of the tumor microenvironment. Continued research and innovation in immunotherapeutic strategies hold the potential to improve patient outcomes and transform the landscape of cancer treatment.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST:
The author has no conflicts of interest.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:
The author would like to thank NCBI, PubMed and Web of Science for the free database services for their kind support during this study.
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Received on 14.07.2023 Modified on 24.11.2023
Accepted on 22.01.2024 ©AandV Publications All right reserved
Asian J. Nursing Education and Research. 2024; 14(1):77-84.
DOI: 10.52711/2349-2996.2024.00016