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Updated: Jul 15, 2026

In Vivo Immunofluorescence Localization for Assessment of Therapeutic and Diagnostic Antibody Biodistribution in Cancer Research
Published on: September 16, 2019
Antibodies and peptides in cancer therapy
Jayant J Khandare1, Tamara Minko
1Dept of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854-8020, USA.
Abstract:
Antibodies and peptides play a variety of roles in cancer therapy: monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and peptides are directly used in anticancer therapy and also as targeting moieties. More than 10 mAbs, either unconjugated or in immunoconjugate forms have been approved for use in oncology. Various peptides, tumor necrosis factors (TNFs), and cell surface-targeted peptides have been identified using phage-display libraries. In combination with standard chemotherapeutic agents, mAbs and peptides can significantly increase the toxicity of anticancer drugs to tumors and reduce their adverse side effects on normal tissues. The present review summarizes some major applications of antibodies and peptides in cancer therapy.
Insights
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and peptides are crucial in cancer therapy, acting as direct treatments and targeting agents. They enhance chemotherapy
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunotherapy
- Drug Development
Background:
- Antibodies and peptides are vital in cancer treatment.
- Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and peptides serve as direct anticancer therapies and targeting moieties.
- Over 10 mAbs are approved for oncological use, in unconjugated or immunoconjugate forms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the significant applications of antibodies and peptides in cancer therapy.
- To highlight their dual role as direct therapeutic agents and targeting tools.
- To summarize advancements in peptide identification for cancer targeting.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of antibody and peptide applications in cancer therapy.
- Analysis of approved monoclonal antibodies in oncology.
- Summary of peptide identification techniques, including phage-display libraries.
- Evaluation of combination therapies involving mAbs, peptides, and chemotherapy.
Main Results:
- Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and peptides are established in cancer treatment.
- Phage-display libraries have identified various peptides, including tumor necrosis factors (TNFs) and cell surface-targeted peptides.
- Combination therapy with mAbs and peptides enhances anticancer drug efficacy against tumors.
- These combinations also reduce adverse side effects on normal tissues.
Conclusions:
- Antibodies and peptides are versatile tools in modern cancer therapy.
- Their strategic use improves treatment outcomes and patient safety.
- Further research into antibody and peptide applications promises continued advancements in oncology.
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