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Updated: Apr 30, 2026

In Vivo Immunofluorescence Localization for Assessment of Therapeutic and Diagnostic Antibody Biodistribution in Cancer Research
Published on: September 16, 2019
Monoclonal antibodies as therapeutics in human malignancies
Manjari Pandey1, Daruka Mahadevan
1The West Clinic & University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, 100 North Humphreys Boulevard, Memphis, TN 38120, USA.
Abstract:
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are a proven effective therapeutic modality in human malignancy. Several mAbs are approved to targets critical in aberrant oncogenic signaling within tumors and their microenvironment. These targets include secreted ligands (e.g., VEGF and HGH), their receptors (e.g., HER2 and VEGFR2), cell surface counter receptors and their receptor-bound ligands (e.g., PD1 and PD1L, respectively). The ability to genetically engineer the structure and/or functions of mAbs has significantly improved their effectiveness. Furthermore, advances in gene expression profiling, proteomics, deep sequencing and deciphering of complex signaling networks have revealed novel therapeutic targets. We review target selection, approved indications and the rationale for mAb utilization in solid and hematologic malignancies. We also discuss novel mAbs in early- and late-phase clinical trials that are likely to change the natural history of disease and improve survival. The future challenge is to design mAb-based novel trial designs for diagnostics and therapeutics for human malignancies.
Insights
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are effective cancer therapies targeting oncogenic signaling. Advances in genetic engineering and molecular profiling reveal new targets, improving treatment for solid and blood cancers.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are established therapeutics for human cancers.
- mAbs target key molecules in tumor signaling pathways, including ligands, receptors, and cell surface proteins.
- Genetic engineering of mAbs enhances their therapeutic efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review target selection and approved indications for mAb therapy in malignancies.
- To discuss the rationale behind mAb utilization in solid and hematologic cancers.
- To highlight novel mAbs in clinical trials with potential to improve patient survival.
Main Methods:
- Review of approved monoclonal antibody therapies.
- Analysis of genetic engineering and molecular profiling advancements.
- Discussion of ongoing clinical trials for novel mAbs.
Main Results:
- Several mAbs are approved for targeting oncogenic signaling in various cancers.
- Advances in molecular techniques have identified novel therapeutic targets for mAbs.
- Numerous novel mAbs are progressing through clinical trials.
Conclusions:
- Monoclonal antibodies represent a critical therapeutic strategy in oncology.
- Continued research and development in mAb technology promise improved cancer treatment outcomes.
- Future efforts should focus on innovative mAb-based trial designs for cancer diagnostics and therapeutics.
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