Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• The development of monoclonal antibodies (mAb) began in the mid-1970s with the hybridoma technique.
• Recombinant engineering now enables the creation of chimeric, humanized, and fully humanized mAb.
• Monoclonal antibodies represent a significant portion of biotech drug development, with numerous products in use or investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the therapeutic applications and current status of monoclonal antibodies.
• To highlight the established role of mAb in treating various diseases.
• To identify areas for future research, including long-term safety and cost-effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on monoclonal antibody development and therapeutic use.
• Analysis of current market and pipeline data for mAb products.
• Discussion of clinical applications and safety profiles.

Main Results:

• Monoclonal antibodies are utilized for antitumour, antiplatelet, antiviral, and autoimmune/alloimmune therapies.
• Approximately 30 mAb products are currently in use or under investigation.
• Short-term side effects are generally manageable, but long-term safety requires further study.

Conclusions:

• The therapeutic use of monoclonal antibodies is well-established, demonstrating the impact of molecular biology on patient care.
• Further investigation into the long-term safety and economic benefits of mAb therapy is warranted.
• Monoclonal antibodies are a key example of "new biology" translating into clinical benefits for patients with serious, chronic conditions.