Which statement accurately describes how monoclonal antibodies function as therapies, with rituximab as an example?

Which statement accurately describes how monoclonal antibodies function as therapies, with rituximab as an example?

• A. They non-specifically activate immune responses to attack all pathogens; rituximab.
• B. They target a specific antigen to modulate immune responses or disease processes; rituximab targets CD20 on B cells.
• C. They kill cells by delivering cytotoxic drugs.
• D. They serve as vaccines to stimulate immunity.

Answer: (D)

Monoclonal antibodies are designed to bind a single target antigen, allowing targeted intervention in disease processes. Rituximab binds CD20 on B cells, and this binding marks those cells for destruction through immune mechanisms such as antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity and complement-dependent cytotoxicity. The result is a reduction in B cell numbers and activity, which can help treat conditions driven by B cells, including certain lymphomas and autoimmune diseases. They provide immediate, passive antibody effects rather than stimulating the body's own immune system to develop memory, as vaccines do. They also aren’t inherently delivering toxic drugs unless specifically engineered as an antibody-drug conjugate.

Monoclonal antibodies are designed to bind a single target antigen, allowing targeted intervention in disease processes. Rituximab binds CD20 on B cells, and this binding marks those cells for destruction through immune mechanisms such as antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity and complement-dependent cytotoxicity. The result is a reduction in B cell numbers and activity, which can help treat conditions driven by B cells, including certain lymphomas and autoimmune diseases. They provide immediate, passive antibody effects rather than stimulating the body's own immune system to develop memory, as vaccines do. They also aren’t inherently delivering toxic drugs unless specifically engineered as an antibody-drug conjugate.