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What are some examples of Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) drugs used to fight mesothelioma cancer?

Posted on: April 3, 2024 *Updated on: May 27, 2024

For mesothelioma, a particularly challenging cancer to treat, the advent of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) has provided new therapeutic options. While the landscape of treatment continues to evolve with ongoing research and clinical trials, several mAbs, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors, have been investigated and used in the treatment of mesothelioma. Here are some examples:

  1. Pembrolizumab (Keytruda): Pembrolizumab is a PD-1 (Programmed Death-1) inhibitor that has shown promise in treating mesothelioma. By blocking the PD-1 pathway, pembrolizumab helps to boost the immune system’s ability to fight cancer cells. The U.S. FDA has approved pembrolizumab for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic solid tumors that have been identified as having certain biomarkers, which may include some cases of mesothelioma.
  2. Nivolumab (Opdivo): Nivolumab is another PD-1 inhibitor that has been studied for its efficacy in mesothelioma treatment. Similar to pembrolizumab, nivolumab works by enhancing the body’s immune response against cancer cells. Research and clinical trials have explored its use both as a single agent and in combination with other therapies for mesothelioma.
  3. Ipilimumab (Yervoy): Ipilimumab targets CTLA-4 (Cytotoxic T-Lymphocyte Antigen 4), another checkpoint protein that can dampen the immune response. By inhibiting CTLA-4, ipilimumab can potentiate the immune system’s reaction against cancer cells. Studies have investigated the use of ipilimumab in combination with nivolumab for the treatment of mesothelioma, offering some patients improved outcomes compared to traditional treatments.

These examples represent a portion of the ongoing efforts to expand the arsenal of therapies against mesothelioma. The use of mAbs, especially in combination therapies, has been a significant focus of recent research, aiming to improve survival rates and the quality of life for patients with this aggressive cancer. It’s important to note that the availability and appropriateness of these treatments can vary based on individual patient factors, including the stage of the cancer, previous treatments, and overall health. Clinical trials continue to play a crucial role in determining the most effective treatment strategies for mesothelioma and other cancers.