What are two primary mechanisms by which immunotherapies combat cancer?

The selected answer highlights the essential functions of immunotherapies in fighting cancer. Immunotherapies primarily aim to harness and enhance the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.

One primary mechanism involves triggering a more robust immune response, which enables the immune system to identify tumor-associated antigens presented by cancer cells. This process often involves the use of monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and other agents that stimulate T-cells or activate other components of the immune system, leading to increased recognition and destruction of cancer cells.

The second mechanism relates to boosting immune function, providing an overall enhancement of the immune system’s capabilities. This can involve increasing the production or activity of immune cells (such as T-cells or natural killer cells), improving their ability to combat tumors, or supporting their longevity and functionality in the presence of cancer.

Together, these mechanisms represent the core strategy of immunotherapy—enhancing the immune system's natural ability to detect and defeat malignant cells. This is integral to many modern approaches in oncology, where the focus shifts from solely targeting cancer directly to also empowering the immune system to do so.