Biomaterials as immunomodulators: A new paradigm in cancer immunotherapy and vaccine design
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: : Biomaterials have emerged as powerful immunomodulators, redefining strategies in cancer immunotherapy and vaccine design. Conventional immunotherapies often face limitations such as poor response rates, systemic toxicity, and tumour-induced immunosuppression. Advances in biomaterial science enable precise modulation of immune responses by tailoring physicochemical properties such as size, charge, and surface functionality, thereby enhancing antigen delivery and immune targeting. These systems improve antigen presentation and support coordinated innate and adaptive immunity, leading to durable immunological memory. In cancer immunotherapy, biomaterials facilitate targeted nanoparticle delivery, checkpoint modulation, and tumour microenvironment reprogramming, while injectable hydrogels and scaffolds enable localized immune activation. In vaccinology, biomaterial-based platforms, including nano vaccines and adjuvants, enhance antigen stability and delivery to antigen-presenting cells. Emerging approaches integrating stimuli-responsive materials and nucleic acid vaccines further broaden therapeutic potential. Despite progress, challenges related to safety, scalability, and regulatory approval remain. Overall, biomaterials offer a promising and targeted approach to advancing cancer immunotherapy and vaccine development.
Source: Review of Materials Research
Language: English
Subfield: Immunology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,600
OpenAlex ID: W7204253109