3.4 Antigen drug targets

Question 1

What is an antigen

Answer 1

• An antigen is a molecule, particle, or substance capable of stimulating an immune response in the body.
• Specifically, it activates lymphocytes, which are the body’s infection-fighting white blood cells

Question 2

What is a common antigen found in Non hodgkins Lymphoma

Question 3

What is Non Hogkins Lymphoma

Answer 3

A haematological malignancy belonging to the lymphoma class

Question 4

What type of cellular problem causes Non Hodgkins lymphoma?

Answer 4

Abnormal activation, growth and proliferation of B cells.

A B cell haematological malignancy

Question 5

What is the target antigen for Non Hogkins lymphoma - A B Cell haematological malignancy?

Answer 5

The Antigen CD20

Question 6

Why is the CD20 antigen a target the treatment of non hodgkins lymphoma

Answer 6

CD20 is widely expressed on the surface of B-cells and is involved in their activation, growth and proliferation

Question 7

What type of drugs are used to target CD20

Answer 7

Monoclonal Antibodies

Question 8

Name 2 monoclonal antibodies which target the CD20 antigen

Answer 8

1. Rituximab
2. Obinutuzumab

Question 9

Note to Jamie

Answer 9

Check out th video on rituximab at the bottom of 3.4.