How do monoclonal antibodies function in cancer treatment?

Monoclonal antibodies function in cancer treatment primarily by being linked to anti-cancer drugs and specifically targeting cancer cells. These antibodies are engineered to recognize and bind to specific antigens found on the surface of cancer cells. Once bound, this can initiate a series of actions that can include delivering toxic drugs directly to the cancer cells, thereby minimizing damage to surrounding healthy cells.

The targeted approach allows for a more precise treatment strategy, enhancing the effectiveness of the drugs while reducing side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy, which can affect both cancerous and healthy cells. This specificity is crucial as it helps to increase the likelihood of killing the cancer cells while preserving normal tissue integrity, leading to potentially better treatment outcomes for patients.