PhRMA Report Shows More than 240 Immuno-Oncology Treatments in Development

In early June 2017, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) – in partnership with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) – released a report that found there are over 240 immuno-oncology medicines and vaccines currently in development. Immuno-oncology treatments are found through research into the role of the body’s immune system in fighting cancer. New immuno-oncology treatment options are allowing the patient’s own immune system to fight cancer similar to the way it fights disease-causing viruses and bacteria. The treatments can help the patient’s own immune system to work against cancer, with the potential for lasting results. According to the report, there is no single accepted definition of immuno-oncology. However, this report includes many of the most recognized classes: adoptive cell therapies (including CAR-T therapy), bi-specific antibodies, cytokines, immune checkpoint modulators, oncolytic virus therapies, and vaccines. Former President Jimmy Carter was a notable recipient to immunotherapy treatment in his battle to fight metastatic melanoma. In addition to the medicines currently in development, researchers are working to understand the full potential of each individual medicine, seeking approval for new indications for currently-existing immunotherapies, as well as new uses in combination with other cancer medicines. “Cancer continues to be one of the most complex and vexing diseases of our time and i...
Source: Policy and Medicine - Category: American Health Authors: Source Type: blogs