Researchers reviewed 31 studies to see if certain molecules, known as lncRNAs, could act as signs for cancer treatment success. These were studied in adult patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors, which are a type of immunotherapy used to treat various cancers.
The review found that these lncRNA signatures consistently showed prognostic value. This means they helped group patients into different categories based on their survival outcomes. Additionally, the study found that these markers were linked to variations in how well patients responded to treatment across several types of cancer.
While these findings are promising for personalized medicine, there is a major reason to be cautious. These results come from a review of existing studies and have not been confirmed in large, prospective clinical trials. Because the research lacks standardized testing methods, these markers are not yet ready to change standard medical practice.
