Progress in Tumor Immunotherapy with Monoclonal Antibodies
FANG Wei1, LI Xin2*
mAbs (monoclonal antibodies) are immunoglobulins generated from a single B cell clone. These antibodies exhibit high affinity and specificity by binding selectively to distinct antigens, which have been broadly applicated in disease diagnosis and therapeutic interventions. Tumorigenesis ensues from prolonged interactions of susceptible cells with various oncogenic factors and the occurrence of multiple genetic mutations. Tumors, characterized by their lethality and refractory nature, significantly impact human life and well-being, exacerbating the overall national healthcare burden. Monoclonal antibodies excute their anti-tumor effects through variety of mechanisms, including the modulation of cell signaling pathways, direct cytotoxicity, engagement of immune effector functions, immune checkpoint blockade, and functioning as carriers for delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs, which display great efficacy in controlling tumor growth. With the evolvement of antibody discovery technologies, coupled with the emergence and in-depth exploration of diverse antibody formats such as antibody fragments, bispecific antibodies, TCR-mimic antibodies, and glycosylated antibodies, the future holds substantial promise for monoclonal antibodies to make significant strides in the realm of cancer immunotherapy.