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Updated: Jun 8, 2026

In Vivo Immunofluorescence Localization for Assessment of Therapeutic and Diagnostic Antibody Biodistribution in Cancer Research
Published on: September 16, 2019
Antibodies in cancer immunotherapy
Lavakumar Karyampudi1, Keith L Knutson
1Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Monoclonal antibodies are effective cancer therapeutics, with eight FDA-approved treatments and more in clinical trials. This review explores their mechanisms, strategies for enhanced effectiveness, and combination therapies for improved cancer treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Monoclonal antibodies represent a significant advancement in cancer therapy.
- Eight monoclonal antibodies are currently FDA-approved for treating various cancers.
- Numerous other antibodies are in late-stage clinical trials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current monoclonal antibody therapies for cancer.
- To discuss their mechanisms of action.
- To explore strategies for enhancing antibody effectiveness and combination therapies.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on monoclonal antibody cancer therapeutics.
- Analysis of approved antibodies and those in clinical trials.
- Discussion of therapeutic strategies and combination approaches.
Main Results:
- Monoclonal antibodies demonstrate efficacy across diverse cancer types.
- Antibodies target tumor cells directly or indirectly to reduce tumor burden.
- Combination therapies with chemotherapeutic agents show promise.
Conclusions:
- Monoclonal antibody therapy is a rapidly evolving field with substantial public health impact.
- Ongoing research focuses on improving antibody efficacy and expanding therapeutic applications.
- Combination strategies are crucial for maximizing treatment benefits.
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