checkpoint inhibitors

Term: Checkpoint InhibitorsDefinition: Checkpoint inhibitors are a type of immunotherapy that helps the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells by blocking proteins that cancer cells use to hide from the immune system.Phonetic Pronunciation: (CHECK-point in-HIB-it-ors)Origin: The term "checkpoint" in this context is derived from the concept of immune checkpoints, which are regulatory pathways in the immune system. The word "inhibitor" comes from the Latin "inhibere," meaning to hold back or restrain. Together, they refer to drugs that inhibit these checkpoints, allowing the immune system to function more effectively against cancer.Significance in Asbestos Context: Checkpoint inhibitors are significant in the treatment of asbestos-related cancers, such as mesothelioma, where traditional treatments may be less effective. They offer a promising new avenue for patients, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life by leveraging the body's own immune response.Example Sentence: After traditional chemotherapy failed to slow the progression of his asbestos-related lung cancer, the patient was enrolled in a clinical trial for a new checkpoint inhibitor.Related Terms: Immunotherapy, Mesothelioma, Cancer Treatment, PD-1 Inhibitors, CTLA-4 InhibitorsNotes: - Checkpoint inhibitors are not a cure but can significantly extend life expectancy and improve quality of life. - They can have side effects, as they may also affect healthy cells. - Not all patients respond to checkpoint inhibitors, and ongoing research aims to identify who is most likely to benefit.