Clinical Report: HNGCIscore Identifies Subgroups Sensitive to Immunotherapy
Overview
This study evaluates the feasibility of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-based retreatment in HER2-negative advanced gastric cancer and introduces the HNGCIscore, a tumor microenvironment-oriented biomarker framework. Results indicate measurable disease control and manageable toxicity in selected patients.
Background
Gastric cancer is a significant global health issue, particularly in regions like China, where advanced stages are common and treatment options are limited. The introduction of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors has changed the treatment landscape for HER2-negative advanced gastric cancer, yet many patients experience disease progression after initial therapy. Identifying biomarkers that predict response to subsequent immunotherapy is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Data Highlights
Group
Objective Response Rate (ORR)
Disease Control Rate (DCR)
Median Progression-Free Survival (PFS2)
Cross-line ICI Continuation
6.85%
50.68%
3.0 months
ICI Rechallenge
5.63%
52.11%
5.5 months
Key Findings
ICI-based retreatment is feasible in selected patients with HER2-negative advanced gastric cancer.
The cross-line continuation group had an ORR of 6.85% and a DCR of 50.68%.
The rechallenge group had an ORR of 5.63% and a DCR of 52.11%.
Median PFS2 was 3.0 months for cross-line continuation and 5.5 months for rechallenge.
58.9% of patients in the cross-line group experienced any-grade treatment-related adverse events.
The HNGCIscore, derived from a seven-gene signature, may help identify patients likely to benefit from immunotherapy.
Clinical Implications
The findings indicate that ICI-based retreatment can provide measurable disease control in specific patient subgroups. The HNGCIscore framework may assist clinicians in identifying patients who are more likely to respond to immunotherapy.
Conclusion
ICI-based retreatment appears to be an option for patients with HER2-negative advanced gastric cancer, with the HNGCIscore offering a potential approach for patient stratification. Further validation in larger cohorts is necessary.
