Azelastine

Article about the use of Azelastine in medical treatment

Engineered Monoclonal Antibodies

Diagram of engineered monoclonal antibodies

Engineered monoclonal antibodies are a class of biological therapies that are designed to target specific antigens on the surface of cells. These antibodies are produced using recombinant DNA technologies and are used in the treatment of various diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases.

Structure and Function

Monoclonal antibodies are composed of two identical heavy chains and two identical light chains, forming a Y-shaped molecule. The tips of the "Y" contain the antigen-binding sites, which are highly specific to the target antigen. This specificity allows monoclonal antibodies to bind to their target with high affinity, blocking or modulating the function of the antigen.

Types of Engineered Monoclonal Antibodies

There are several types of engineered monoclonal antibodies, each designed for specific therapeutic purposes:

• Chimeric antibodies: These antibodies are composed of murine (mouse) variable regions and human constant regions. They are less immunogenic than fully murine antibodies.

• Humanized antibodies: These antibodies are mostly human, with only the antigen-binding sites derived from murine sources. This reduces the risk of immune reactions.

• Fully human antibodies: These are entirely human in origin, produced using transgenic mice or phage display technologies.

• Bispecific antibodies: These antibodies are engineered to bind two different antigens simultaneously, offering unique therapeutic mechanisms.

Applications in Medicine

Engineered monoclonal antibodies have revolutionized the treatment of many diseases:

• Cancer therapy: Monoclonal antibodies can target specific tumor antigens, leading to direct tumor cell killing or recruitment of immune cells to attack the tumor.

• Autoimmune diseases: By targeting specific components of the immune system, monoclonal antibodies can reduce inflammation and tissue damage in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.

• Infectious diseases: Monoclonal antibodies can neutralize pathogens or their toxins, providing passive immunity or enhancing the host's immune response.

Production

The production of engineered monoclonal antibodies involves several steps:

1. Antigen identification: The target antigen is identified and characterized. 2. Hybridoma technology: B cells from immunized animals are fused with myeloma cells to create hybridomas that produce the desired antibody. 3. Recombinant DNA technology: Genes encoding the antibody are cloned and expressed in suitable host cells, such as Chinese hamster ovary cells. 4. Purification and formulation: The antibodies are purified and formulated for clinical use.

Challenges and Future Directions

While engineered monoclonal antibodies have shown great promise, there are challenges such as high production costs, potential for immune reactions, and the development of resistance. Ongoing research aims to improve antibody design, reduce immunogenicity, and enhance therapeutic efficacy.

Related Pages

• Monoclonal antibody therapy
• Biopharmaceutical
• Immunotherapy
• Hybridoma technology

Azelastine is a pharmaceutical drug used primarily as an antihistamine for the treatment of allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis. It is available in various forms, including nasal sprays and ophthalmic solutions. Azelastine works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.

Mechanism of Action

Azelastine is a selective histamine H1 receptor antagonist. By binding to these receptors, it prevents histamine from exerting its effects, which include vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and sensory nerve stimulation. This action helps alleviate symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy or watery eyes.

Indications

Azelastine is indicated for the treatment of:

• Allergic rhinitis: Both seasonal and perennial types.
• Allergic conjunctivitis: To relieve symptoms such as itching and redness of the eyes.

Dosage and Administration

Azelastine is administered as a nasal spray or eye drops. The typical dosage for nasal spray is one or two sprays per nostril twice daily. For ophthalmic use, one drop in each affected eye twice daily is recommended. It is important to follow the specific instructions provided by a healthcare professional.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Azelastine include:

• Bitter taste
• Headache
• Nasal irritation
• Drowsiness

Less common but more serious side effects may include:

• Severe allergic reactions
• Nasal ulcerations

Precautions

Patients should be advised to avoid activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until they know how Azelastine affects them. Alcohol and other central nervous system depressants may enhance the sedative effects of Azelastine.

Drug Interactions

Azelastine may interact with other medications that cause drowsiness, such as benzodiazepines, opioids, and certain antidepressants. It is important to inform healthcare providers of all medications being taken to avoid potential interactions.

Also see

• Antihistamines
• Allergic rhinitis
• Allergic conjunctivitis
• Histamine

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  Azelastine 3D Structure

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  Azelastine 3D Structure