Innate Immune Mechanisms and Immunotherapy of Myeloid Malignancies

Abstract

Similar to other cancers, myeloid malignancies are thought to subvert the immune system during their development. This subversion occurs via both malignant cell-autonomous and non-autonomous mechanisms and involves manipulation of the innate and adaptive immune systems. Multiple strategies are being studied to rejuvenate, redirect, or re-enforce the immune system in order to fight off myeloid malignancies. So far, the most successful strategies include interferon treatment and antibody-based therapies, though chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) cells and immune checkpoint inhibitors are also promising therapies. In this review, we discuss the inherent immune mechanisms of defense against myeloid malignancies, currently-approved agents, and agents under investigation. Overall, we evaluate the efficacy and potential of immuno-oncology in the treatment of myeloid malignancies.