Therapeutic antibody (mAb) (mAb)

Therapeutic antibodies are laboratory-engineered proteins designed to bind specifically to antigens associated with various diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders (National Cancer Institute, 2023). These biologics leverage the high specificity of the immune system to target cell-surface receptors, soluble cytokines, or pathogens, thereby neutralizing their activity or marking them for destruction (Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 2018). By utilizing mechanisms such as antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), they can effectively eliminate malignant or infected cells while sparing healthy tissue (PubMed, 2021). Since their introduction, they have become a cornerstone of modern medicine, with numerous approvals for conditions ranging from rheumatoid arthritis to metastatic melanoma (StatPearls, 2023). However, their large size and proteinaceous nature necessitate parenteral administration and pose risks of immunogenicity, which can lead to reduced efficacy or adverse infusion reactions (FDA, 2024).

Other names

Monoclonal antibodyBiologicImmunoglobulin therapyAntibody-based drug

Antigen neutralization, receptor blockade, and induction of immune-mediated effector functions such as antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) (Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 2018).