After a dry spell for cancer immunotherapy, a new target offers a beacon of hope

On Target is a recurring feature from STAT that dives deep into the most promising drug targets in oncology. 

Oncologists may soon have a new immuno-oncology target in their arsenal. Experts expect the Food and Drug Administration to soon approve relatlimab, a Bristol Myers Squibb drug that binds to a cancer target called LAG-3, making it the first new immune checkpoint target in nearly a decade.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors work by blocking critical cellular safety systems that keep our immune cells in “check.” By turning off these checkpoints, immune cells are free to unleash their destructive power — and hopefully, crush cancer in the body. Over the last 10 years, scientists have made wildly successful compounds that targeted the checkpoints PD-1 and CTLA-4, spawning the drugs Keytruda, Opdivo, and Yervoy.

STAT+ Exclusive Story

Already have an account? Log in

This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers

Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and networking platform access.

Already have an account? Log in

Already have an account? Log in

Individual plans

Group plans

Monthly

$39

Totals $468 per year

$39/month Get Started

Totals $468 per year

Starter

$30

for 3 months, then $39/month

$30 for 3 months Get Started

Then $39/month

Annual

$399

Save 15%

$399/year Get Started

Save 15%

11+ Users

Custom

Savings start at 25%!

Request A Quote Request A Quote

Savings start at 25%!

2-10 Users

$300

Annually per user

$300/year Get Started

$300 Annually per user

View All Plans

Get unlimited access to award-winning journalism and exclusive events.

Subscribe

Log In