tislelizumab + nab-paclitaxel + carboplatin

This neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy (nCIT) regimen is being evaluated by Zhejiang Cancer Hospital for the treatment of resectable locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The combination consists of tislelizumab, a humanized IgG4 monoclonal antibody that targets the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) receptor, administered alongside a chemotherapy backbone typically comprising albumin-bound paclitaxel (nab-paclitaxel) and carboplatin. Tislelizumab functions as a checkpoint inhibitor, enhancing the immune system's ability to detect and destroy tumor cells by blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway. The chemotherapy component provides direct cytotoxic effects and potentially increases tumor immunogenicity. This specific regimen is currently being compared against neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by immunotherapy (nCRIT) in Phase II clinical studies to determine the optimal preoperative strategy for ESCC patients.

Other names

neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapynCITtislelizumab plus chemotherapy