What are PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors used for?

PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors are used to treat certain types of cancers by blocking immune checkpoints. This mechanism is crucial for enhancing the body’s immune response against tumor cells. PD-1 (Programmed Cell Death Protein 1) is a receptor on T cells, and PD-L1 (Programmed Death-Ligand 1) is its ligand found on certain cancer cells. When PD-1 binds to PD-L1, it sends an inhibitory signal to T cells, reducing their ability to attack cancer cells. By inhibiting this interaction, PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors restore T cell activity, allowing the immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cells more effectively.

The other options, while relevant in the context of cancer treatment, do not accurately describe the primary purpose of PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors. They do not enhance chemotherapy effectiveness, reduce pain, or improve radiation sensitivity as their main function. Instead, the focus of these inhibitors is specifically on immunotherapy and the enhancement of the body's immune response to fight cancer.