Block the complement signal that recruits tumour-protecting cells
An old part of the immune system called complement can be hijacked by tumours to summon protective cells. Drugs that block it already exist for other diseases.
C5a acting through C5aR1 recruits and polarises suppressive myeloid cells in lung, cervical and pancreatic tumour models, and complement inhibitors are approved for rare haematological and kidney diseases, giving established safety data. Combination with checkpoint blockade showed additive effects in mouse models, and small early-phase trials of anti-C5aR1 with checkpoint inhibitors have begun.
- Cold tumours and the immunosuppressive microenvironment · Most tumours keep the immune system out or asleep, so immunotherapy helps only a minority.
- No incentive to repurpose cheap drugs · Old, cheap drugs with anti-cancer signals never get the trials they need because no one profits from the result.
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