Abstract

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer treatment by unleashing the immune system to target and destroy tumor cells. Despite their significant success in cancers such as melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and renal cell carcinoma, many patients do not respond or develop resistance to these therapies. The combination of ICIs with targeted therapies, which specifically target molecular pathways involved in cancer growth, is emerging as a promising approach to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy. This combination aims to overcome resistance mechanisms, improve tumor microenvironment modulation, and broaden the patient population that can benefit from immunotherapy. In this review, we explore the future of combining ICIs with targeted therapies, focusing on preclinical and clinical evidence, challenges, and potential strategies. The evolving landscape of combination therapies holds significant promise for more durable responses and improved outcomes in cancer treatment.