Immunotherapy in oncologic diseases involves the use of drugs which stimulate the immune system and indirectly suppress tumor cells growth. These agents have expanded the treatment options for cancer patients. Despite the impressive success achieved in the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and subsequent approval in a broader spectrum of malignant tumors, most patients are not responded the therapy. Currently available predictive markers of efficacy are nonspecific. However, microRNAs are of particular interest, which regulate gene expression and are involved in the carcinogenesis and therapy resistance. Therefore, it is clear that for the most efficient and cost-effective use of ICIs, it is important to have validated biomarkers that will accurately predict the therapeutic response. The published results on molecular genetic changes in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) were analyzed and summarized in order to determine possible prognostic biomarkers when prescribing ICI therapy.

Keywords: exosomal microRNAs, prognostic markers, immunotherapy, renal cell carcinoma, resistance