Therapeutic platforms for cancer management centered on blocking the PD-L1/PD-1 interaction through the use of aptamers: A review.

Abstract

Blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 (Programmed Cell Death Protein-1/Programmed Cell Death Ligand-1) pathway represents a pivotal approach in cancer immunotherapy, effectively promoting sustained antitumor immune responses while alleviating immunosuppressive mechanisms. Advancing novel technologies to enhance the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 blockade remains a critical focus in medical research. Nonetheless, challenges such as immune-related adverse effects, therapeutic resistance, and high treatment costs highlight the urgent need for innovative strategies that optimize clinical outcomes and accessibility. Aptamers are short, single-stranded oligonucleotides characterized by their high affinity and specificity for target molecules. Emerging as promising alternatives to traditional antibody-based therapies, they offer new avenues in cancer treatment. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of aptamer-driven strategies aimed at inhibiting the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint pathway. It summarizes recent advances in the design of PD-1/PD-L1-targeted aptamer systems and evaluates their potential to enhance therapeutic efficacy while addressing challenges related to immune resistance.