Anti PD-L1 combined with other agents in non-small cell lung cancer: combinations with non-immuno-oncology agents.

ABSTRACTIntroduction: Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. Despite recent advances, the estimated 5-year overall survival is only around 17%. There is an urgent need for development of new effective drug strategies for the treatment of advanced-stage lung cancer.Areas covered: This review focuses on ongoing research in immune and non-immune oncology combinations for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here, we will focus on the combination of PD-L1 inhibitors (immunotherapy) with chemotherapy, vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors, targeted therapies, and radiation.Expert commentary: Immunotherapy is a major advancement in the treatment of NSCLC due to its durable responses and overall favorable toxicity profile. However, these responses are seen in only a subset of patients. Mechanisms of resistance to this therapy continue to emerge. Studies on combination therapies are underway as the therapeutic mechanisms of these established agents are ...