Marijuana

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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

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a psychoactive drug from the Cannabis plant used primarily for medical or recreational purposes. The main psychoactive component of marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), one of the 483 known compounds in the plant, including at least 65 other cannabinoids.

History

The use of cannabis as a drug has been documented as far back as 2800 BC in ancient China. It was used for its psychoactive effects and as a medicine. In the 20th century, marijuana became a subject of legal restrictions and was classified as an illegal substance in many countries.

Medical Uses

Marijuana is used in the treatment of various medical conditions, including chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy. It is also used to alleviate symptoms such as nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are the active chemical compounds found in marijuana. The most well-known cannabinoids are THC and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects, while CBD is known for its potential therapeutic benefits without causing a "high."

Recreational Use

Recreational use of marijuana is widespread and involves smoking, vaporizing, or ingesting the plant. The effects of marijuana can include relaxation, euphoria, altered perception of time, and increased appetite.

Legal Status

The legal status of marijuana varies by country and region. Some countries have legalized its use for medical and/or recreational purposes, while others continue to enforce strict prohibition laws. In the United States, marijuana is legal for recreational use in several states, while others permit its use only for medical purposes.

Adverse Effects

While marijuana is considered to have a relatively low risk of addiction, it can lead to dependence in some users. Adverse effects may include impaired short-term memory, altered judgment, and in high doses, paranoia or anxiety.

See Also

• Cannabis (drug)
• Cannabis cultivation
• Cannabis smoking
• Cannabis edible
• Cannabis in the United States

External Links

• World Health Organization: Cannabis
• National Institute on Drug Abuse: Marijuana