20 Facts You Should Know About Immunotherapy Treatment

FACT #12:Weakened tumor cells can provide valuable intel to immune cells.

A combination of immunotherapy and radiation played a crucial role in former U.S. President Jimmy Carter's victory over melanoma. The strategy involved using radiation to weaken cancer cells, prompting them to release their inner components and trigger an immune response against the remaining cancer cells.

Another immunotherapy approach, called GVAX, builds on this idea. It also exposes tumor cells to radiation but takes a step further. Tumor cells are taken from patients and then irradiated outside the body. These cells are modified to produce a molecule called GM-CSF, which is intended to bolster a strong, tumor-specific immune response when reintroduced into patients. This innovative method aims to enhance the immune system's ability to target and eliminate cancer.