Immunomodulator
Immunomodulator
An immunomodulator is a type of biological therapy that stimulates or suppresses the immune system to help the body fight cancer, infection, or other disease. Some immunomodulators are made by the body, while others are made in a laboratory. They can also be used to help reduce certain side effects that may be caused by some cancer treatments.
Types of Immunomodulators[edit | edit source]
There are several types of immunomodulators, including interferons, interleukins, and monoclonal antibodies.
- Interferons are a group of signaling proteins made and released by host cells in response to the presence of several viruses. In a typical scenario, a virus-infected cell will release interferons causing nearby cells to heighten their anti-viral defenses.
- Interleukins are a group of cytokines that were first seen to be expressed by white blood cells (leukocytes). The function of the immune system depends in a large part on interleukins, and rare deficiencies of a number of them have been described, all featuring autoimmune diseases or immune deficiency.
- Monoclonal antibodies are antibodies that are made by identical immune cells that are all clones of a unique parent cell. Monoclonal antibodies can have monovalent affinity, in that they bind to the same epitope.
Uses of Immunomodulators[edit | edit source]
Immunomodulators are used in the treatment of several diseases including cancer, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases. They work by modulating or regulating the immune system to improve the body's natural response to disease.
Side Effects of Immunomodulators[edit | edit source]
Like all medications, immunomodulators can cause side effects. These can vary depending on the specific type of immunomodulator and the individual patient. Common side effects can include fatigue, fever, and nausea. More serious side effects can include infection, allergic reactions, and changes in blood pressure.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
