3D video on targeted cancer immunotherapy and the role of PD-L1 inhibitors

Our client*, a major pharmaceutical  company that focuses primarily on oncology treatment and diabetic care. They needed a way to effectively communicate the intricate mechanisms of targeted cancer immunotherapy and PD-L1 inhibitors, to patients, healthcare providers, and potential investors. They realized that textual descriptions were not engaging, they decided to move to 3D visualization. Recognizing the impressive portfolio of 3D models created by the experts at VOKA, they turned to us for assistance.

To address the client’s concerns, VOKA created a high-quality 3D video that breaks down the critical concepts in immunotherapy for cancer treatment:

Immune response

This part of the video explains how the immune system targets and eliminates cancer cells.
Tumor cells express unique or altered antigens on their surfaces. To recognize these specific antigens, T-cells are equipped with unique receptors. However, antigens first must be processed and presented by antigen-presenting cells (APCs), which ingest the tumor antigens, process them, and present peptide fragments of these antigens on their surface bound to molecules known as major histocompatibility complexes (MHCs). When a T-cell receptor binds to an antigen-MHC complex on an APC, the T-cell activates and undergoes clonal expansion. Next, it targets and binds to tumor cells displaying the same antigen. This leads to the destruction of the tumor cells through cytotoxic molecules and apoptosis.

PD-L1 and cancer evasion

The animation illustrates strategies cancer cells have developed to avoid detection and destruction by the immune system. One key method involves the expression of PD-L1 protein on their surfaces that interacts with the PD-1 receptor on T-cell. When PD-L1 binds to PD-1, it sends an inhibitory signal to the T-cells, reducing the T-cells’ ability to proliferate, produce cytokines, and kill cancer cells.

PD-L1 inhibitors

To counteract this immune evasion, medical science has developed PD-L1 inhibitors, a class of drugs that specifically target the interaction between PD-1 on T-cells and PD-L1 on cancer cells. By blocking this interaction, PD-L1 inhibitors prevent the inhibitory signals from being sent to the T-cells. This removal allows T-cells to regain their protective functionality. With the restoration of these immune capabilities, the immune system can recognize and treat tumors as pathology.

Video development process

• Classification:
  To provide watchers with highly accurate details, we closely collaborated with a pharmacologist when developing a script.
• 3D Modeling:
  We leveraged Maya, Blender, ZBrush and Substance Painter to create detailed models of immune cells, cancer cells, and molecular structures and provide users with immersive experience.
• Animation:
  Depicting immune response and inhibitor mechanisms, we brought static models to life.
• Motion Graphics:
  Compiled animated sequences in After Effects, integrating narration, music and text overlays.

The video is currently available on YouTube for anyone interested in advanced cancer treatments.

*Detailed information about the client cannot be disclosed under the provisions of the NDA.