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Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Novel Combinations and Therapeutic Targets

  • Leukemia (A Aguayo, Section Editor)
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Immune checkpoint therapy has dramatically changed the therapeutic landscape of solid malignancies. Here, we review the scientific rationale and current data evaluating immune checkpoint inhibitors in acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

Recent Findings

Immune checkpoint inhibitor monotherapy has shown limited clinical activity in AML. Initial results from early-phase clinical trials suggest that rational combinations of immune checkpoint inhibition with hypomethylating agents (HMAs) are safe and potentially more promising. There are currently no data directly comparing immune checkpoint inhibition to standard therapies. Emerging immune targets more specific for leukemia cells including LILRB4 may improve future therapeutic efficacy.

Summary

The success of immune checkpoint inhibition in AML has been modest to date. However, an improved understanding of the biology and the use of rational combinations has potential to improve rates of durable responses. Multiple clinical trials in AML are currently evaluating the use of immune checkpoints alone and in combination.

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  1. Department of Medicine, Division of Hematologic Malignancies, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA

    Maximilian Stahl & Aaron D. Goldberg

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  1. Maximilian Stahl
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Correspondence to Aaron D. Goldberg.

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Maximilian Stahl declares that he has no conflict of interest.

Aaron D. Goldberg has received research funding from Arog Pharmaceuticals, Pfizer, ADC Therapeutics, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, and the American Society of Hematology; and has received speaker’s honorarium and travel reimbursements from DAVA Oncology and compensation from Abbvie, Celgene, and Daiichi-Sankyo for service as a consultant.

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Stahl, M., Goldberg, A.D. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Novel Combinations and Therapeutic Targets. Curr Oncol Rep 21, 37 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11912-019-0781-7

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