Monoclonal antibodies in ophthalmology

The monoclonal antibodies can selectively target specific molecules, proteins or receptors in the body responsible for pathogenesis of a particular disorder. Some cytokines play key role in the development of proliferative diabetic retinopathy, neovascular age related macular degeneration, glaucoma and many other inflammatory conditions of eye. Monoclonal antibodies against VEGF and TNF-alpha such as bevacizumab, ranibizumab, infliximab and adalimumab have been used to control neovascularization and inflammation in eye with significant positive results whereas others have been used to target CD20, CD52, CD11a, and IL-2. The growing interest in these drugs with current progress in biotechnology and genetic engineering has kindled active research and with more understanding of the molecular basis of many ocular disorders these antibodies are being explored in a variety of different pathological conditions of the eye. Various sight threatening serious eye disorders which are resistant to the conventional available therapy have responded favorably to these drugs. Despite the limitations of high cost and uncertainty around long term safety profile, rational use of the monoclonal antibodies holds immense promise in management of various ocular conditions.