Monoclonal Antibodies
Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system of the body in response to foreign attackers, such as viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Monoclonal antibodies are artificially made to mimic the mechanism of naturally released antibodies. They can bind to particular proteins on cancerous cells, thus making it easier for the immune system to identify and get rid of these cells. This treatment can be considered a form of targeted therapy as monoclonal antibodies target cancer cells’ proteins. Several special forms of monoclonal antibodies called conjugated monoclonal antibodies have a toxic medication, which works to eliminate cancer cells. Some common monoclonal antibodies for treating leukemia include:
– Rituximab for treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia
– Ofatumumab for treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia
– Obinutuzumab for treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia
– Blinatumomab for treating acute lymphocytic leukemia
– Alemtuzumab for treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Some common conjugated monoclonal antibodies for treating leukemia include:
– Moxetumomab pasudotox for treating hairy cell leukemia
– Inotuzumab ozogamizin for treating acute lymphocytic leukemia
– Gemtuzumab ozogamicin for treating acute myeloid leukemia [6]
