Why it matters
Hormonal environment shapes immune response:
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Estrogen ↓ T-cell activation;
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Androgen ↓ antigen presentation;
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Their blockade may partially re-sensitize tumors to checkpoint inhibitors.
Clinical snapshot
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Prostate: ADT + PD-1 inhibitors (e.g., pembrolizumab) under investigation — modest benefit in MSI-H or TMB-high tumors only.
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Breast: Few clear synergies; current trials mix AI + ICI for triple-positive tumors.
(ESMO Immuno-Oncology 2024)
Practical take-away:
Combine only in a clinical trial or guideline-endorsed indication; monitor for immune-endocrine overlap (hepatitis, thyroiditis).