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Monoclonal Antibodies: Synthesis, Nomenclature, Therapeutic Uses, and Adverse Effects
Introduction
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are laboratory-made molecules designed to mimic the immune system's ability to fight off harmful pathogens. They are identical antibodies produced by a single clone of B cells, targeting specific antigens. mAbs are used in the treatment of various diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infections.
Synthesis
- Monoclonal antibodies are synthesized using hybridoma technology, which involves fusing B cells with myeloma cells to create hybridomas capable of producing the desired antibody.
- The process includes:
- Immunization of an animal (typically a mouse) with the antigen of interest.
- Extraction of B cells and fusion with myeloma cells to create hybridomas.
- Selection and cloning of hybridomas producing the desired antibody.
Nomenclature
- The nomenclature for monoclonal antibodies follows a systematic structure based on the source and target of the antibody.
- Prefix: Indicates the source of the antibody (e.g., "Mur-" for mouse, "Hum-" for human).
- Infix: Refers to the target or type of disease (e.g., "li-" for immune, "ci-" for cardiovascular).
- Suffix: Denotes the nature of the antibody (e.g., "-mab" for monoclonal antibody, "-zumab" for humanized monoclonal antibody).
Example: Rituximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody targeting CD20 on B cells.
Therapeutic Uses
- Cancer Treatment: mAbs like Rituximab and Trastuzumab are used to target cancer cells and enhance immune response.
- Autoimmune Diseases: mAbs such as Adalimumab and Infliximab are used to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
- Infectious Diseases: mAbs like Palivizumab treat viral infections such as RSV in infants.
- Organ Transplantation: mAbs are used to prevent organ rejection by targeting immune cells.
Adverse Side Effects
- Infusion Reactions: Symptoms include fever, chills, nausea, and headache due to antibody infusion.
- Hypersensitivity: Allergic reactions ranging from rashes to anaphylaxis.
- Increased Risk of Infections: Some mAbs increase the risk of infections by suppressing the immune system.
- Cardiovascular Events: Some mAbs, like Trastuzumab, may cause heart failure or other cardiovascular issues.
- Tumor Lysis Syndrome: Rapid breakdown of tumor cells leading to kidney damage and electrolyte imbalances.
- Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS): Severe inflammatory response with symptoms such as fever and low blood pressure.
