Research progress on traditional Chinese medicine-assisted immune checkpoint inhibitors therapy for solid tumors

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) represent a promising approach in tumor therapy. However, when applied to solid tumors-the predominant form of tumors-their efficacy is often constrained by the distinctive tumor microenvironment, yielding low response rates and resistance. Additionally, treatment with ICIs commonly leads to immune-related adverse events (irAEs). These challenges have restricted the broader clinical application of ICIs, underscoring the need for strategies that can enhance their antitumor effects while maintaining a favorable safety profile. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is characterized by holistic regulation and has the therapeutic advantages of multi-level, multi-target and low toxicity. In recent years, it has shown great potential in addressing ICIs-related limitations. This review systematically summarizes current advances in the combined use of TCM and ICIs for solid tumors, aiming to offer new perspectives for incorporating TCM into future cancer treatment strategies.