Furazolidone

An article about the use of Furazolidone 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

Furazolidone is an antimicrobial agent that has been used in the treatment of bacterial and protozoal infections. It belongs to the class of nitrofuran antibiotics and has been used in both human and veterinary medicine.

Mechanism of Action

Furazolidone works by interfering with the DNA of bacteria and protozoa, inhibiting their ability to reproduce and repair themselves. This action is primarily bacteriostatic, meaning it stops bacteria from multiplying, but it can also be bactericidal at higher concentrations.

Medical Uses

Furazolidone has been used to treat a variety of infections, including:

• Giardiasis
• Cholera
• Bacterial diarrhea
• Helicobacter pylori infections

It is particularly effective against infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria and some protozoa.

Side Effects

Common side effects of furazolidone include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain

Rare but serious side effects can include:

• Allergic reactions
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Hepatotoxicity

Contraindications

Furazolidone should not be used in individuals with known hypersensitivity to nitrofuran derivatives. It is also contraindicated in patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency due to the risk of hemolytic anemia.

Drug Interactions

Furazolidone can interact with other medications, including:

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Antidepressants
• Sympathomimetic drugs

These interactions can lead to increased blood pressure and other cardiovascular effects.

Regulatory Status

Furazolidone has been withdrawn from the market in many countries due to concerns about its safety profile and the availability of safer alternatives. However, it may still be used in some regions under specific circumstances.

Also see

• Nitrofuran
• Antimicrobial resistance
• Antibiotic
• Giardiasis

References

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  Furazolidone

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  Furazolidone 3D Spacefill