Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 6, 2026
Analyzing Tumor and Tissue Distribution of Target Antigen Specific Therapeutic Antibody
Published on: May 16, 2020
[Molecular tumour therapy: antibodies and small molecules]
1Klinik für Innere Medizin SP Hämatologie, Onkologie, Immunologie, Universitätsklinikum Giessen und Marburg, Standort Marburg, Baldingerstrasse 1, 35033, Marburg, Deutschland. cwilhelm@mailer.uni-marburg.de
Abstract:
Molecular tumor therapy based on understanding the principles of malignant transformation has resulted in a dramatic progress in cancer therapy. Targeted therapies attack the malignant cells and, more specifically, the deregulated intracellular signal transduction. Therefore a high efficacy with lower side effects then classical chemotherapy is expected. There are two different drug classes available: monoclonal antibodies targeting surface molecules, as well as intracellular acting small molecules, especially tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Both modalities have specific advances but also limitations, and have resulted in greater life expectancy in certain solid and hematopoietic tumors such as certain leukemias, lymphoma, breast and lung cancers. The limiting factors are i) the drug can only be applied when the targeted protein is expressed; ii) the high cost associated with these therapies.
Insights
Targeted cancer therapies offer improved efficacy and reduced side effects compared to chemotherapy. However, their application is limited by protein expression and high costs.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Molecular tumor therapy represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment.
- Understanding malignant transformation drives the development of targeted therapies.
Purpose:
- To review the principles, drug classes, and limitations of molecular tumor therapy.
- To highlight the progress and challenges in targeted cancer treatment.
Summary:
- Targeted therapies, including monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, selectively attack cancer cells.
- These therapies aim for higher efficacy and fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.
- Current limitations include the requirement for specific protein expression and high treatment costs.
Impact:
- Molecular tumor therapy has increased life expectancy for patients with various solid and hematopoietic tumors.
- Advances in targeted therapies offer new hope for treating leukemias, lymphomas, breast, and lung cancers.
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