What is the Innate Immune System?

The innate immune system is the body’s first line of immunological response and the master regulator of subsequent immune activity. In cancer, the innate immune system mediates presentation of tumor antigens, priming and activation of tumor-specific immune cells that enable optimal development of adaptive anti-tumor immunity. Existing immunotherapies are mostly focused on harnessing the adaptive immune system to target and destroy tumors. However, some tumors are not easily recognized by the immune system, and thus will continue to grow. Targeting mechanisms involved in the innate immune response will potentially lead to the activation of dendritic cells and priming of tumor-targeted T cells and enhance anti-tumor activity. (Source: Bristol-Myers Squibb Website, 03 August, 2017)