Glisoxepide

An oral antidiabetic drug

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

Glisoxepide is an oral antidiabetic drug belonging to the class of sulfonylureas. It is used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus to help control blood sugar levels.

Mechanism of Action

Glisoxepide works by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin. It binds to the sulfonylurea receptor on the beta cells of the pancreas, leading to the closure of ATP-sensitive potassium channels. This results in the depolarization of the cell membrane and the opening of voltage-gated calcium channels, allowing calcium influx and subsequent insulin release.

Pharmacokinetics

Glisoxepide is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and undergoes hepatic metabolism. It has a relatively long half-life, which allows for once-daily dosing. The drug and its metabolites are excreted primarily via the kidneys.

Clinical Use

Glisoxepide is indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in patients who cannot achieve adequate glycemic control with diet and exercise alone. It may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic agents such as metformin or insulin.

Side Effects

Common side effects of glisoxepide include hypoglycemia, weight gain, and gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea and diarrhea. Rarely, it may cause allergic reactions or hematological disorders such as leukopenia or thrombocytopenia.

Contraindications

Glisoxepide is contraindicated in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus, diabetic ketoacidosis, or severe renal or hepatic impairment. It should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease.

Related pages

• Sulfonylurea
• Type 2 diabetes mellitus
• Insulin
• Metformin