Regarding the underlying mechanisms, it is well established that immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as anti-CTLA-4 (Yervoy) and anti-PD-1 (Opdivo and Keytruda), improve the anti-cancer immune response. However, it is less known how cancer ablation stimulates the immune response. Ablation results in tumor destruction inside the body, releasing antigens. Antigens are pieces of the tumor that the immune system can recognize and use to attack other tumors with similar characteristics. Additionally, the ablation process releases substances locally that further enhance the immune response. These substances are known as Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns (PAMPs) and Damage-Associated Molecular Patterns (DAMPs). These substances set off an alarm to fight against the cancer. Combining the release of DAMPs, PAMPs, and tumor antigens with immune checkpoint inhibitors (anti-CTLA-4 and PD-1) creates a near-perfect mix of immune stimulation, resulting in a much more powerful anti-cancer immune response. This combination stimulates the immune system against cancer throughout the whole body in a way that has never been achieved before.