Isocarboxazid

Overview of the monoamine oxidase inhibitor Isocarboxazid

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

Isocarboxazid is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) used as an antidepressant in the treatment of major depressive disorder. It is one of the older classes of antidepressants and is known for its effectiveness in patients who do not respond to other treatments.

Pharmacology

Isocarboxazid works by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which is responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain. By inhibiting this enzyme, isocarboxazid increases the levels of these neurotransmitters, which can help improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.

Medical uses

Isocarboxazid is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder, especially in cases where other treatments have failed. It may also be used in the treatment of anxiety disorders and panic disorder.

Side effects

Common side effects of isocarboxazid include dizziness, dry mouth, constipation, and insomnia. Due to its mechanism of action, it can also cause hypertensive crisis if taken with certain foods or other medications that increase tyramine levels.

Interactions

Isocarboxazid can interact with a variety of substances, including other antidepressants, sympathomimetic drugs, and foods high in tyramine. Patients are advised to follow a strict diet and avoid certain medications to prevent adverse reactions.

History

Isocarboxazid was first introduced in the 1950s and was one of the first MAOIs to be used clinically. Despite the development of newer antidepressants, it remains an option for treatment-resistant depression.

Related pages

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitor
• Major depressive disorder
• Antidepressant

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  Isocarboxazid