Cancer Neoantigens

Cancer neoantigens are abnormal proteins present on the surface of cancer cells that arise from mutations within the tumor's DNA. These mutations can generate new or altered proteins that are not typically found in normal cells, making them potential targets for the immune system to recognize and attack.

Neoantigens are unique to each individual's cancer and play a pivotal role in the body's immune response against tumors. They are considered promising targets for cancer immunotherapy, particularly in personalized medicine approaches like cancer vaccines or adoptive cell therapies.

Identification of cancer neoantigens involves analyzing the tumor's genetic makeup to pinpoint specific mutations that lead to the formation of these abnormal proteins. Advances in technology, such as genomic sequencing and computational algorithms, have significantly improved the ability to identify neoantigens, enabling the development of personalized cancer treatments tailored to a patient's specific mutations.

Harnessing the immune system's ability to recognize and target cancer neoantigens holds immense potential for improving cancer treatment efficacy while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. Research in this field continues to expand, aiming to leverage neoantigens for the development of innovative and more precise cancer therapies that could offer improved outcomes for cancer patients.