Monoclonal antibodies: the promise and the reality

Monoclonal antibodies, or "MoAbs," have revolutionized clinical approaches to diagnostic imaging and therapy of many diseases. The use of MoAbs for diagnosing and treating cancer has been especially promising. However, the full potential of these "magic bullets" has yet to be realized. This article examines the current and potential uses of MoAbs, describes problems with the technology and looks at potential solutions. Along with descriptions of how MoAbs are made and prepared for use in the clinic, the article provides examples of the ways in which MoAbs can be used to complement and expand the information obtained from standard diagnostic imaging modalities. Specific examples of the use of monoclonal antibodies for treating cancer and other diseases also are provided.