Understanding Immunotherapy-Dr. Amit Saklani

1. Understanding Immunotherapy: A Breakthrough in Modern Medicine Immunotherapy is one of the most significant advancements in modern medicine, revolutionizing how we approach the treatment of cancer, autoimmune diseases, and infectious conditions. Unlike traditional therapies that target the disease directly, immunotherapy works by empowering the body’s own immune system to recognize, attack, and eliminate harmful cells or pathogens. What is Immunotherapy? Immunotherapy is a type of biological therapy that uses substances made from living organisms to stimulate or restore the immune system’s natural ability to fight disease. It can either boost the immune system's activity or target specific components of the immune response. Types of Immunotherapy 1. Monoclonal Antibodies Lab-created antibodies that target specific cancer cells or disease-causing antigens. Example: Trastuzumab (Herceptin) for breast cancer. 2. Checkpoint Inhibitors These drugs block immune checkpoints (proteins that prevent immune cells from attacking normal cells), allowing the immune system to better identify and destroy cancer cells. Example: PD-1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors.

2. 3. Cancer Vaccines Vaccines designed to prevent or treat cancer by boosting the immune response against tumor cells. Example: HPV vaccine. 4. Adoptive Cell Transfer (CAR-T Therapy) T-cells are collected from a patient, genetically modified to better fight cancer, and reintroduced into the body. 5. Cytokines These are proteins such as interleukins and interferons that enhance the immune response and are used to treat certain cancers and viral infections. Applications of Immunotherapy •Cancer Treatment: Especially effective for melanoma, lung cancer, lymphoma, kidney cancer, and bladder cancer. •Autoimmune Disorders: Used to suppress an overactive immune response (e.g., in rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis). •Infectious Diseases: Boosting immunity in viral infections like COVID-19 and HIV. •Allergy Treatment: Allergy shots are a form of immunotherapy to reduce immune reactions. Benefits of Immunotherapy •Targets diseases at the cellular level •May work when other treatments fail •Fewer side effects than chemotherapy •Long-lasting protection due to immune memory •Personalized to patient’s genetic and immune profile Limitations and Side Effects •Not all patients respond to immunotherapy •Possible immune overreaction (autoimmune-like symptoms) •High cost and limited availability in some regions •Requires close monitoring and expert supervision

3. The Future of Immunotherapy The field of immunotherapy continues to grow rapidly. Ongoing research is focused on: •Expanding its use to more types of cancer and diseases •Making treatments more affordable and accessible •Combining immunotherapy with other treatment modalities like radiation and chemotherapy •Enhancing precision through AI and genetic testing Conclusion Immunotherapy represents a promising and powerful approach to fighting some of the world’s most challenging diseases. By harnessing the body's natural defenses, this innovative treatment offers new hope to millions and continues to shape the future of personalized medicine. Contact Us Clinic/Hospital Name: Dr. Amit Saklani - Oncologist Doctor, Jalandhar Panjab Phone Number: 9339026214 Website: https://saklanioncology.com/ Email: dramitsaklanidehradun@gmail.com Address: Patel Hospital, Civil Lines Jalandhar, Panjab 144001