Irradiation immunity interactions

Abstract

The immune system can influence cancer development by both impeding and/or facilitating tumour growth and spread. A better understanding of this complex relationship is fundamental to optimise current and future cancer therapeutic strategies. Although typically regarded as a localised and immunosuppressive anti-cancer treatment modality, radiation therapy has been associated with generating profound systemic effects beyond the intended target volume. These systemic effects are immune-driven suggesting radiation therapy can enhance anti-tumour immunosurveillance in some instances. In this review, we summarise how radiation therapy can positively and negatively affect local and systemic anti-tumour immune responses, how co-administration of immunotherapy with radiation therapy may help promote anti-tumour immunity, and how the use of immune biomarkers may help steer radiation therapy-immunotherapy personalisation to optimise clinical outcomes.