Monoclonal Antibodies (mAbs)

Monoclonal Antibodies (mAbs) are targeted protein drugs that bind specific antigens and treat cancer and autoimmune diseases.

Monoclonal Antibodies (mAbs)

• Lab-produced proteins that mimic natural antibodies
• Designed to bind specific antigens (e.g., proteins on cancer cells or pathogens)
• Produced using hybridoma technology (fusion of B-cells with myeloma cells)

Mechanism of Action

• Bind to specific targets (antigens) on cells
• Can:
  • Block receptor activity
  • Induce apoptosis
  • Mark cells for immune destruction

Uses of Monoclonal Antibodies

1. Cancer treatment
2. Autoimmune diseases
3. Infectious diseases
4. Allergies
5. Organ transplantation

Examples of Monoclonal Antibodies

1. Trastuzumab (Herceptin)

   • Targets HER2 protein in HER2-positive breast cancer
   • Slows/stops cancer cell growth
   • Often combined with chemotherapy

2. Adalimumab (Humira)

   • Treats rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn’s disease
   • Blocks TNF-alpha, reducing inflammation

3. Bevacizumab (Avastin)

   • Used in colorectal, lung, brain cancers
   • Blocks VEGF to inhibit tumor blood supply

4. Rituximab (Rituxan)

   • Treats non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, CLL, rheumatoid arthritis
   • Binds to CD20 on B-cells → promotes their destruction

5. Omalizumab (Xolair)

   • Used for allergic asthma, chronic hives
   • Binds to IgE → reduces allergic response

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