Abstract

Immuno-oncology has witnessed transformative advancements, redefining the treatment landscape for various cancers. The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapies, and tumor microenvironment modulators marks a paradigm shift, offering unprecedented survival benefits for patients. This review explores the key breakthroughs that have shaped modern immuno-oncology, emphasizing the synergistic integration of these therapies with other modalities, such as targeted treatments and radiotherapy. We highlight the critical role of immune system modulation in overcoming tumor-induced immunosuppression and the challenges of immune-related adverse events, resistance mechanisms, and tumor heterogeneity. Cutting-edge approaches, such as next-generation immune checkpoint inhibitors, personalized neoantigen vaccines, and engineered T-cell therapies, are discussed alongside their clinical implications and translational potential. Furthermore, advancements in biomarker discovery and artificial intelligence are enhancing patient stratification and response prediction, optimizing therapeutic outcomes. This review underscores the shift from a one-size-fits-all approach to personalized immuno-oncology, leveraging the immune system’s innate potential to combat cancer. By examining current challenges and future directions, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of this paradigm shift, laying the foundation for continued innovation in cancer immunotherapy.