In recent years, the important role of the immune system in fighting cancer has received widespread attention. Initial doubts about the ability of the anti-tumour immune response have given way to a rapidly expanding field of research. Tumour and metastatic cells generate an immune response that can destroy them, and even eradicate the cancer. However, cancer cells can develop mechanisms that allow them to evade the anti-tumour immune response. 

This special issue will review advances in the mechanisms of the immune response against tumors and metastasis, how cancer cells escape this response, and the implications for immunotherapy treatments against cancer. We will analyse the role of different immune system cells in destroying cancer cells, as well as the important role played by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules and the escape mechanisms developed by tumour cells against the immune system. We will also examine the process of latent metastasis and how the immune system can control it. The focus of all these processes will ultimately be on possible current and new immunotherapy treatments for cancer.

Our goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the interaction between the immune system and cancer, covering everything from existing knowledge to new perspectives in this exciting and rapidly evolving field. This knowledge will enable us to develop new immunotherapy treatments that can destroy tumors and metastases.

Keywords: Cancer immune response, cancer immunoescape mechanisms, dormant metastases, cancer immunotherapy