Valsartan

An angiotensin II receptor blocker used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure

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

Valsartan is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). It is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, and to improve survival after a myocardial infarction (heart attack). Valsartan works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a chemical in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten and narrow. By blocking this action, valsartan helps to relax and widen blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow.

Medical uses

Valsartan is prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure, heart failure, and to reduce the risk of death after a heart attack. It is often used in patients who cannot tolerate angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors). Valsartan may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents.

Hypertension

Valsartan is effective in lowering blood pressure in patients with hypertension. It can be used as a monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive medications such as hydrochlorothiazide.

Heart failure

In patients with heart failure, valsartan helps to improve symptoms and reduce hospitalizations. It is often used in conjunction with other heart failure treatments.

Post-myocardial infarction

Valsartan is used to improve survival and reduce the risk of further cardiovascular events in patients who have experienced a heart attack.

Side effects

Common side effects of valsartan include dizziness, viral infections, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Serious side effects may include kidney problems, high blood potassium levels, and low blood pressure. Patients are advised to report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider.

Mechanism of action

Valsartan selectively inhibits the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor, which is found in many tissues, including vascular smooth muscle and the adrenal gland. This inhibition prevents the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II, leading to a decrease in blood pressure.

Pharmacokinetics

Valsartan is well absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring 2 to 4 hours after dosing. It is highly bound to plasma proteins and is primarily excreted in the feces.

History

Valsartan was developed by Novartis and was first approved for medical use in 1996. It is available as a generic medication and is widely used around the world.

Related pages

• Angiotensin II receptor antagonist
• Hypertension
• Heart failure

References

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  Chemical structure of Valsartan

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  3D model of Valsartan

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  Co-Diovan packaging containing Valsartan