Work

Mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine in enhancing the efficacy and reducing the toxicity of immune checkpoint inhibitors via regulation of the tumor microenvironment and gut microbiota

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) face challenges of drug resistance and immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)-including single herbs, compounds, and active monomers-enhances ICI efficacy and reduces toxicity by remodeling the tumor immune microenvironment, regulating gut microbiota, and modulating key immune pathways. TCM also alleviates ICI-induced colitis and myocarditis, demonstrating the value of holistic and syndrome-differentiated therapy. Future research should clarify synergistic mechanisms to advance precise integration of TCM and ICI immunotherapy.

Source: Journal of Enzyme Inhibition and Medicinal Chemistry

DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2026.2662446

Authors: Junying Pan, Liying Yang, Haoyu Wang, Yinghua Chen

Institutions: Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine

Language: English

Topic: Cancer Immunotherapy and Biomarkers

Subfield: Oncology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,306