nivolumab + irreversible electroporation

This combination therapy involves the use of the immune checkpoint inhibitor nivolumab in conjunction with irreversible electroporation (IRE), a non-thermal focal ablation technique. Nivolumab is a human monoclonal antibody that binds to the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) receptor, blocking its interaction with PD-L1 and PD-L2, thereby enhancing T-cell mediated anti-tumor immune responses. Irreversible electroporation, typically delivered via the NanoKnife system, utilizes short-duration, high-voltage electrical pulses to create permanent nanopores in cell membranes, leading to apoptotic cell death while sparing the extracellular matrix and critical structures like blood vessels and nerves. In the treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer, IRE is intended to induce immunogenic cell death and modulate the tumor microenvironment, potentially releasing tumor-associated antigens that sensitize the malignancy to nivolumab's checkpoint inhibition. This specific therapeutic approach is being evaluated in the Phase 2 CHECKPOINT study led by investigator Ismail Gögenur.

Brand names

OpdivoNanoKnife

Other names

IRE + NivolumabNivolumab plus Irreversible ElectroporationCHECKPOINT trial regimen