PBMCs were gated on lymphocytes, followed by doublet exclusion and identification of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Expression of CD38 and checkpoint molecules (PD-1, ICOS, Tim-3, LAG-3) was analyzed. Gates were defined using negative controls.

PBMCs were stimulated with the PADRE–derived peptide, resulting in a comparable IFN-γ production in both CR/PR and SD/PD groups. ns: not significant.

Table 2 from Peptide-Reactive T-cell Response as a Novel Biomarker in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer Treated with Anti–PD-1 Antibody

Comparison of laboratory parameters between responders (CR/PR) and nonresponders (SD/PD). A, Pretreatment lymphocyte percentage was significantly higher in the CR/PR group than in the SD/PD group. B, Lymphocyte count 1 month after treatment was also significantly higher in CR/PR compared with SD/PD. C, Serum albumin level 1 month after treatment showed a significantly higher value in CR/PR than in SD/PD. D, CRP level 1 month after treatment was significantly lower in CR/PR than in SD/PD. Horizontal bars indicate median values. *, P < 0.05.

Binding affinity of EGFR peptide and c-Met peptide to HLA molecules