To boost cancer immunotherapy's fighting power, look to the gut

Immunotherapy has redefined cancer treatment, but not all patients experience the same benefit when treated. New research in mice identifies how gut bacteria alter the body's response to a common form of cancer immunotherapy. The animals' gut microbiota lowered the expression of two immune molecules, one previously unknown to play a role in cancer. • Using antibodies to block the activity of either molecule, or the interplay between them, enhanced response to cancer immunotherapy. • The findings can inform the design of treatments that boost the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy among patients with suboptimal response.

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