Exploring the potential of immuno-oncology-based treatment for patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

Immune evasion is recognized as a key strategy for cancer survival and progression. With increased understanding of immune escape mechanisms, the development of immunotherapies to restore anti-tumor immune responses has flourished. Immuno-oncology (I-O) agents targeting checkpoints in the immune regulation cascade currently form the mainstay of approaches of cancer immunotherapy. Since initial success in melanoma, evidence for the notable effects of the I-O modality has been expanding, with numerous clinical studies underway or completed in a variety of solid tumors, including non-small cell lung cancer. This review highlights the rationale and potential role of immunotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer management, with a focus on immune checkpoint inhibitors. We also discuss the potential for I-O-based combination therapy.