monoclonal antibodies Flashcards
1
Q
what are the applications of monoclonal antibodies?
A
- they tag specific molecules
- are present in home pregnancy tests
- they are involved in the diagnosis of infectious diseases and drugs
- can target drugs
2
Q
describe the treatment of cancer
A
- tumour cells may express antigens
- an antibody is produced (externally) which is specific to the antigen on cancer cells
- they couple the antibody to a cytotoxic agent agent (e.g radioactive substance)
- the antibody-cytotoxic complex is injected into the patient which targets the cancer cell and destroys it
3
Q
what are monoclonal antibodies?
A
antibody produced from cloned B lymphocytes so have the same tertiary structure.
4
Q
explain how monoclonal antibodies can be used in medical treatments.
A
- monoclonal antibody has a specific tertiary structure which is complementary to receptor on specific cell type e.g cancer cell.
- antibody attaches to drug and binds drug to specific antigens.
