checkpoint blockade therapy

Checkpoint blockade therapy is a type of cancer immunotherapy that helps the immune system better recognize and attack cancer cells. Normally, some cancer cells exploit "checkpoints," which are natural mechanisms that prevent the immune system from overreacting, to evade immune attack. Checkpoint inhibitors are drugs that block these checkpoints, releasing the brakes on immune cells like T-cells. This enables the immune system to more effectively identify and destroy cancer cells. Essentially, it’s like removing obstacles that prevent immune cells from doing their job, enhancing the body's natural ability to fight cancer.