Monoclonal antibody therapy
Monoclonal Antibody Therapy
Monoclonal antibody therapy (pronunciation: mɒnəˈkləʊn(ə)l ˈantɪbɒdi θɛrəpi) is a form of immunotherapy that uses monoclonal antibodies (mAb or moAb) to bind specific cells or proteins. This may then stimulate the patient's immune system to attack those cells.
Etymology
The term "monoclonal" derives from the Greek words "monos" (meaning "one") and "klon" (meaning "clone"). "Antibody" comes from the Greek "anti" (against) and the Latin "corpus" (body). "Therapy" is derived from the Greek "therapeia" meaning "healing".
Mechanism of Action
Monoclonal antibody therapy works by producing antibodies that are designed to target a specific antigen present on the surface of cancer cells. These antibodies are produced in a laboratory and can be designed to attack a specific protein on the cancer cells, thereby killing the cells or slowing their growth.
Related Terms
- Antigen: A substance that the immune system recognizes as foreign and responds to by producing antibodies.
- Immunotherapy: A type of cancer treatment designed to boost the body's natural defenses to fight cancer.
- Cancer cells: Cells that grow and divide at an unregulated, quickened pace.
Uses
Monoclonal antibody therapy is used to treat many different types of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and lymphoma. It is also used in the treatment of some autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease.
Side Effects
Like all medical treatments, monoclonal antibody therapy can have side effects. These can include allergic reactions, fever, chills, and nausea. More serious side effects can include heart problems, lung problems, and infections.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Monoclonal antibody therapy
- Wikipedia's article - Monoclonal antibody therapy
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