Enprostil

A synthetic prostaglandin analog used in medicine

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

Enprostil is a synthetic prostaglandin analog used in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. It is primarily utilized for its cytoprotective properties in the gastric mucosa.

Pharmacology

Enprostil is a prostaglandin E2 analog, which means it mimics the action of naturally occurring prostaglandins in the body. Prostaglandins are lipid compounds that have diverse hormone-like effects, including the regulation of inflammation, gastric acid secretion, and mucosal protection.

Mechanism of Action

Enprostil works by binding to specific prostaglandin receptors in the stomach lining, leading to increased production of mucus and bicarbonate, which help protect the stomach lining from acidic damage. It also inhibits the secretion of gastric acid, thereby reducing the risk of ulceration.

Medical Uses

Enprostil is used in the management of peptic ulcer disease and gastritis. It is particularly beneficial in patients who require nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as these medications can increase the risk of gastric ulcers.

Side Effects

Common side effects of enprostil include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea. These effects are generally mild and resolve with continued use. However, enprostil should be used with caution in patients with inflammatory bowel disease due to its potential to exacerbate symptoms.

Contraindications

Enprostil is contraindicated in pregnancy due to its potential to induce uterine contractions and cause miscarriage. It should also be avoided in patients with known hypersensitivity to prostaglandins.

Related pages

• Prostaglandin
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Gastric acid
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug

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  Enprostil