Immunotherapy is one of the important modalities in the treatment of cancer
since it can directly target the tumor and its microenvironment with lesser side effects
and cytotoxicity. The main goal of immunotherapy in the treatment of cancer is the
reactivation of the immune system against cancer cells. In this way, the body fights
against cancer using its immune system rather than relying on external agents which
might be harmful to other healthy parts of the body. The development of monoclonal
antibodies (Mabs) has delivered a significant therapeutic effect. Mab therapy is one of
the most evolving techniques in cancer immunotherapy and has shown efficacy in
controlling several types of malignancies. There are several other methods by which
the activation of the immune system can be achieved, such as by using small molecules
or by targeting ligands. Interestingly, studies have demonstrated that cancer stem cells
have also been found as a target for effective immunotherapy. Additionally, the
complete elimination of the cancer cells requires longer sustainability of tumor-specific
T cells. Primitive results suggest that these T cells can be localized to tumor cells,
mediating highly effective immunotherapy. However, despite these huge successes,
several problems still persist and must be overcome. This chapter discusses the current
and cutting-edge immunotherapeutic approaches to fight against cancer cells.
Keywords: Cancer, Immunotherapy, Monoclonal therapy, Stem cells, Tumour microenvironment, Vaccines.
