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Monoclonal antibody

A monoclonal antibody (mAb) is an artificially produced antibody that is derived from a single cell lineage. These antibodies are identical and specifically target a particular antigen, making them useful in various medical and research applications.

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These antibodies are identical and specifically target a particular antigen, making them useful in various medical and research applications. The use of monoclonal antibodies has revolutionized the field of immunology, diagnostics, and therapeutics. The production of monoclonal antibodies involves the fusion of a specific antibody-producing cell called a B cell with a cancerous cell line. This fusion results in the formation of immortal cells called hybridomas that produce a large quantity of the desired antibody. These hybridomas are then screened to identify the clones that produce the desired monoclonal antibody. Monoclonal antibodies have various applications in medicine. They are used in cancer therapy to target specific cancer cells, either by delivering toxic substances directly to the cancer cells or by blocking the signals that promote their growth. They are also used in autoimmune diseases and inflammatory disorders to block the activity of specific molecules involved in the disease process. In addition to therapeutic uses, monoclonal antibodies are widely utilized in diagnostic tests. They can be used to detect the presence of specific antigens or infectious agents in a patient sample, aiding in the diagnosis of infectious diseases, cancer, and other medical conditions. Monoclonal antibodies are also used in research, where they are instrumental in studying the structure, function, and behavior of various molecules in biological systems. The development of monoclonal antibodies has significantly advanced the field of healthcare by providing highly specific and effective tools for disease detection and treatment. They have been approved for use in various diseases, including cancers, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. Furthermore, ongoing research continues to explore new applications and improve the effectiveness of these antibodies, bringing hope for future medical breakthroughs.