Monoclonal Antibodies for Cancer
Monoclonal antibodies are lab-made proteins designed to attach to specific targets on the surface of cancer cells. They are a type of targeted therapy used to treat cancer. These antibodies work in two ways: they can either directly attack the cancer cells, or mark them so the immune system can destroy them.
Below is a step-by-step process of how monoclonal antibodies are made and used in cancer treatment:
- Immunization: The process starts by injecting lab animals, such as rabbits or mice, with a substance called an antigen—something that triggers the immune system to make antibodies. An antibody is a protein made by the immune system to fight harmful substances. The animals get several injections over several weeks to help their immune system produce antibodies.
- Isolation of B cells: After the animals have produced enough antibodies, their B lymphocytes (B cells) are collected from their spleen. These immune cells are responsible for producing antibodies.
- Fusion with myeloma cells: The B cells are combined with myeloma cells—a type of tumor cell. This fusion creates special cells called hybridomas that can produce large amounts of the specific antibodies needed to target cancer.
- Production and purification: The hybridoma cells that was created to produce specific cancer antibodies are then grown in a lab, where they multiply and make large amounts of monoclonal antibodies. These antibodies are then purified to remove any unwanted substances.
- Giving monoclonal antibodies to patients: Once the monoclonal antibodies are produced and cleaned, they can be given to patients as part of their cancer treatment. The antibodies are usually given through IV infusions (through a vein) or subcutaneous injection (under the skin), depending on the specific drug and type of cancer being treated.
It is important to know that monoclonal antibodies are prepared and given by trained medical professionals, such as oncologists (doctors who treat cancer) or immunologists (doctors who focus on the immune system).
After undergoing monoclonal antibody treatment, patients may need to follow certain instructions for recovery and follow-up:
- Recovery: Patients may experience side effects from monoclonal antibody treatment, such as feeling tired (fatigue), nausea, or skin reactions where the injection was given. It is important to rest and take care of yourself during this time. Eating healthy foods and drinking plenty of water can also help with recovery.
- Follow-up: Patients will need to go to regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare providers. These visits help check how the treatment is working and look for any side effects. These appointments may include blood tests, imaging scans, or other tests to see how well the treatment is working.
Monoclonal antibody treatment is usually safe for most people, but there can still be some possible risks to keep in mind:
- Complications: Some individuals may have allergic reactions to monoclonal antibodies. These reactions can range from mild symptoms like rash or itching to more serious symptoms like trouble breathing or swelling of the face or throat. It is important to get medical help right away if you notice any of these signs.
- Important information to share with your doctor: Patients should tell their doctor about any health conditions they already have or any medications they are taking. Some conditions or medications may affect the treatment and might require changes.
- When to call the doctor: Patients should contact their healthcare provider if they have symptoms such as severe tiredness, a fever that won’t go away, unusual bleeding or bruising, trouble breathing.
It's important to talk with your healthcare provider before starting any treatment. They can give you advice based on your specific health needs and help make sure the treatment is safe and effective for you.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.