NSCLC Trial Shows Radiation May Overcome Primary Resistance to Pembrolizumab

Recent research indicates that combining radiation therapy with immunotherapy could enhance treatment effectiveness for non–small cell lung cancers characterized as immunologically 'cold'. Led by Dr. Valsamo Anagnostou at Johns Hopkins, the study examined the effects of stereotactic body radiation therapy alongside pembrolizumab in 72 patients. Results showed improved progression-free survival and immune responses in patients typically resistant to immunotherapy, suggesting that radiation may play a critical role in overcoming such resistance.