Researchers from the Garvan Institute of Medical Research and UNSW Sydney have uncovered that less active versions of a gene called NOD2, in combination with radiotherapy or immunotherapy, may help supercharge the immune system’s ability to attack cancer.

The findings, published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, could pave the way for more personalized and effective immunotherapy treatments against a range of cancers.

Immunotherapy fights cancer, but not everyone responds equally

Immunotherapy has emerged as one of the most significant advances in cancer treatment in recent decades. It works by recruiting the body’s immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cells. But not everyone responds equally, with some experiencing strong immune activation, while others experience no effect.