What is the main therapeutic use of monoclonal antibodies?

Monoclonal antibodies are primarily utilized in oncology for the treatment of certain cancers. They are engineered to specifically target cancer cells, either by marking them for destruction by the immune system or by blocking the growth signals that the cancer cells rely on. This targeted approach can be more effective and cause fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy, which affects both cancerous and healthy cells.

In cancer treatment, monoclonal antibodies can also deliver toxic substances directly to cancer cells, enhancing the precision of the treatment and improving outcomes. This specificity is crucial in treating various types of cancers, including breast cancer, lymphoma, and melanoma, among others. The therapeutic use of monoclonal antibodies represents a significant advancement in targeted cancer therapies, allowing for tailored treatments based on the molecular characteristics of individual tumors.