Antibodies Flashcards
What are antibodies, vaccines, and adjuvants collectively referred to as?
They are collectively referred to as “biologics.”
How have traditional polyclonal antibody preparations been used?
Used for passive immunization against infectious diseases and harmful agents.
Passive immunization - Phrophylactically
To prevent a future medical episode
e.g. administration of a specific anti-snake toxin antibody preparation prior to travel to a region in which the snakes are commonly found.
Passive immunization - Therapeutically
To treat a medical condition that is already established
e.g. administration of the anti-venom antibody immediately after the individual has experienced a snake bite.
What are the two categories of antibody preparations used for passive immunity based on their source?
Antisera
- obtained from animals
Immunoglobulin preparations
- obtained from humans
What is the predominant antibody type in both animal-origin and human-origin preparations?
IgG
What are some potential side effects of using specific antisera?
Hypersensitivity reactions such as “serum sickness” and, in severe cases, life-threatening anaphylaxis.
What are the major categories of polyclonal antibody preparations used therapeutically?
- Specific microbial or viral pathogens
- Microbial toxins
- Snake/spider venoms (antivenins)
When was monoclonal antibody technology first developed?
The mid 1970s.
Kohler and Milstein
How were monoclonal antibodies first produced?
Fusing immortal myeloma cells with antibody-producing B-Lymphocytes,
resulting in hybridoma cells that produce monospecific (monoclonal) antibodies.
What are the therapeutic applications of monoclonal antibodies?
- induction of passive immunity,
- diagnostic imaging
- treatment of conditions such as cancer, transplantation, and cardiovascular disease.
How do monoclonal antibodies interact with target cells in the body?
Selectively interact with specific target cells in the body
How can monoclonal antibodies be modified for specific applications?
Can be conjugated to a radioisotope, drug, or toxin, acting as “magic bullets” to deliver a radioactive or drug load to specific target cells in the body.
Name two FDA-approved monoclonal antibody products and their uses.
Remicade (Infliximab) is used for the treatment of Crohn’s disease
Herceptin (Trastuzumab) is used for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer.
What is the most significant indication for antibody-based products currently in clinical trials?
Cancer