New Approaches in Glioblastoma Multiforme: The Potential Role of Immune- check Point Inhibitors.

BACKGROUND Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most frequent brain tumor. Despite recent advances in treatment approaches the prognosis remains poor, with a median overall survival of 14.6 months. Immunotherapy is the subject of ongoing research and its benefit is becoming evident in other malignancies. Immune check-points such as cytotoxic T lymphocyte associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4), programmed cell death receptor (PD-1) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) reduce immune response. OBJECTIVE To clarify the role of immune check point inhibitors in GBM management. METHODS Preclinical and clinical trials of immune check-point inhibitors in GBM were obtained by searching for English peer-reviewed articles on PubMed databases, trials registered on clincaltrials. gov and abstracts recently presented at international congresses. RESULTS Immune check point inhibitors may be of critical importance for the design of future immunotherapy approaches in GBM management. CONCLUSION Immune check-point inhibitors should be considered a promising treatment option in GBM.