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Published on: September 16, 2019
Application of monoclonal antibodies as cancer therapy in solid tumors
Rodrigo Dienstmann1, Ben Markman, Josep Tabernero
1Medical Oncology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
Abstract:
Monoclonal antibodies have become an important new class of therapeutic agents approved for use in solid tumors. They function through several different mechanisms including inhibition of tumor-related signal transduction, induction of apoptosis, inhibition of angiogenesis, enhancing host immune response against cancer and targeted delivery of cytotoxic agents to the tumor site. Several monoclonal antibodies have now received regulatory approval--trastuzumab, cetuximab, panitumumab, bevacizumab, catumaxomab, ipilimumab and denosumab--across multiple solid tumor types, including breast, colorectal, head and neck, non-small cell lung cancers and melanomas, amongst others. These agents are employed clinically in some neoadjuvant/adjuvant and radical treatment settings, as well as more extensively in the metastatic and palliative settings. Current research is focused on innovative compound design, novel targets, predictive biomarker discovery, enriched patient populations, and combination strategies in order to overcome resistance and prolong disease control. Here we provide an overview of monoclonal antibodies approved for use in clinical oncology and those currently in clinical development.
Insights
Monoclonal antibodies are a new class of cancer therapies targeting solid tumors through various mechanisms. Research is ongoing to improve their efficacy and overcome resistance in cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Monoclonal antibodies represent a significant advancement in cancer therapeutics, particularly for solid tumors.
- These agents operate via diverse mechanisms, including signal transduction inhibition, apoptosis induction, and immune response modulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of approved monoclonal antibodies in clinical oncology.
- To highlight monoclonal antibodies currently in clinical development for cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of regulatory-approved monoclonal antibodies for solid tumors.
- Analysis of mechanisms of action, including signal transduction inhibition, apoptosis induction, and immune enhancement.
- Examination of clinical applications in various treatment settings (neoadjuvant, adjuvant, metastatic, palliative).
Main Results:
- Several monoclonal antibodies (trastuzumab, cetuximab, panitumumab, bevacizumab, catumaxomab, ipilimumab, denosumab) are approved for breast, colorectal, head and neck, lung, and melanoma cancers.
- These antibodies are utilized across different stages of cancer treatment, from adjuvant to palliative care.
- Ongoing research focuses on novel targets, combination strategies, and patient stratification to enhance therapeutic outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Monoclonal antibodies are established therapeutic agents in oncology with diverse mechanisms and broad clinical applications.
- Future research directions aim to overcome resistance and improve disease control through innovative drug design and personalized medicine approaches.
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