Strategies to enhance anti-leukaemia immunotherapy

Abstract

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) was an incurable disease prior to allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT), which was proven to be a potent cellular immunotherapy-approach. However, allo-HCT has major side effects, with disease relapse presenting as a frequent complication. Novel immunotherapies aim to reduce toxicity and increase the anti-leukaemia activity of allo-HCT. Technological advancements in genetic engineering approaches enable potent immunotherapeutic activity while limiting toxicities. A biology-driven application of small molecules that target AML vulnerabilities holds promise to enhance anti-leukaemia immunotherapy. Extensive preclinical testing of these approaches is essential to reduce toxicity and to find the ideal combination partners for future clinical testing.