Targeting Aging Hallmarks with Monoclonal Antibodies: A New Era in Cancer Immunotherapy and Geriatric Medicine

Michele Dal Bo1, Marta Gambirasi1,2, Idris Vruzhaj1

  • 1Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081 Aviano, Italy.

Aging is characterized by a progressive deterioration in physiological function and an increased susceptibility to age-related diseases, such as cancer. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) constitute a novel therapeutic approach aimed at addressing aging mechanisms such as cellular senescence, inflammaging, and immunosenescence. This text presents an overview of mAb methods aimed at the markers of aging and their potential application in cancer treatment. The mAbs can be categorized into senolytics, senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) neutralizers, and immune checkpoint inhibitors, each targeting fewer aging-related pathways relevant to cancer therapeutic enhancement than the last. Translating promising preclinical evidence into enhanced efficacy and safety in cancer therapy presents challenges, particularly in older populations. This study examines the therapeutic efficacy of mAbs in the treatment of cancer and age-related disorders, focusing on their current and future roles in oncology practice.

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