What role does the immune system play in biotherapy?

The immune system plays a crucial role in biotherapy by effectively targeting and destroying cancer cells. This approach harnesses the body’s natural defenses to recognize and eliminate cancerous tissues. Biotherapy, often referred to as immunotherapy, utilizes various techniques to enhance the immune response against tumors. These techniques can include monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and cytokine therapy, all of which aim to empower immune cells to identify and attack cancer cells more effectively.

In the context of treating cancer, the immune system can differentiate between normal cells and cancer cells, making it a vital component in the therapeutic process. This targeted approach not only aims to eradicate the tumor but also has the potential to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissues compared to traditional therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation.

While suppressing cancer growth, tracking cell mutations, and preventing metastasis are important aspects of cancer treatment, they do not encapsulate the primary function of biotherapy as it pertains to the immune system. The direct engagement and destruction of cancer cells through an activated immune response exemplify why targeting and destroying cancer cells is the key role of the immune system in this therapeutic strategy.