Immune checkpoint inhibitors

Immune checkpoint inhibitors are medications that help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. Normally, the body has "checkpoints"—proteins that regulate immune responses to prevent overactivity and protect healthy cells. Cancer cells can exploit these checkpoints to escape immune attack. These drugs block or inhibit these checkpoints, releasing the "brakes" on the immune system so it can target and destroy cancer cells more efficiently. They have become important treatments for various cancers, often leading to durable responses.