The effects of irreversible electroporation triggering anti-tumor immunity and the value of its combination with immunotherapy

Recently, interventional ablation techniques have gained prominence in tumor treatment guidelines and complement traditional approaches, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Conventional ablation techniques, such as microwave, radiofrequency, and cryoablation, have been used; however, they have certain limitations, including the risk of damaging surrounding normal tissues and the heat sink effect caused by tumor blood flow.1 Irreversible electroporation (IRE), an ablation technology independent of thermal energy, is a promising alternative.2 Clinical studies have demonstrated IRE's efficacy in treating tumors, such as pancreatic and liver tumors.3 Recent research has shown that IRE can elicit specific anti-tumor immune responses in the body.5 IRE also plays a crucial role in eliminating residual tumor cells postoperatively and preventing tumor recurrence.