Light-activated azobenzene peptide inhibitor of the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction.

Inhibiting the PD-1/PD-L1 protein-protein interaction is a key immunotherapy for cancer. Antibodies dominate the clinical space but are costly, with limited applicability and immune side effects. We developed a photo-controlled azobenzene peptide that selectively inhibits the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction when in the isomer only. Activity is demonstrated in and cellular assays.