Breakthroughs in immunotherapy, such as chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy and checkpoint inhibition antibodies, have led to a rejuvenated interest in the human immune system. Insights from basic immunology research drive approaches and innovations in the exploding immunotherapy field (Figure 1). Studies of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes helped shed light on the complex tumor microenvironment and the mechanisms of cancer immune evasion. Discoveries of neo-antigens, unique biomarkers, and optimization of combination immunotherapy (Figure 1) have led to improved efficacy and patient outcomes. However, we still don’t fully understand the complex relationship between immunity and disease, especially when it comes to cell activation, cytotoxicity, regulation, and memory.
