Testosterone (medication)

Overview of testosterone as a medication

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

Testosterone is a hormone that is primarily produced in the testes in males and in smaller amounts in the ovaries of females. It is also produced in small quantities by the adrenal glands. As a medication, testosterone is used to treat conditions caused by low levels of the hormone, such as hypogonadism in males and certain types of breast cancer in females.

Medical Uses

Testosterone is used in various forms to treat different medical conditions:

• Hypogonadism in males: Testosterone replacement therapy is used to treat males with low testosterone levels due to disorders of the testes, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus.
• Delayed puberty in males: It can be used to stimulate the onset of puberty in boys with delayed puberty.
• Breast cancer in females: Certain types of breast cancer that are hormone-sensitive can be treated with testosterone.
• Gender dysphoria: Testosterone is used as part of hormone therapy for transgender men.

Forms of Administration

Testosterone can be administered in several forms, including:

• Injectable testosterone: Such as testosterone cypionate or testosterone enanthate, which are administered intramuscularly.
• Transdermal patches: Such as the Androderm patch, which delivers testosterone through the skin.
• Topical gels: Such as AndroGel, which is applied to the skin.
• Oral tablets: Although less common due to potential liver toxicity.
• Implants: Small pellets inserted under the skin that release testosterone over time.

Side Effects

Common side effects of testosterone therapy include:

• Acne and oily skin
• Increased red blood cell count
• Mood changes
• Sleep apnea
• Prostate enlargement

Serious side effects can include cardiovascular issues, liver problems, and increased risk of prostate cancer.

Mechanism of Action

Testosterone works by binding to androgen receptors in various tissues, influencing the expression of genes that regulate the development and maintenance of male characteristics. It plays a crucial role in the development of male reproductive tissues, such as the testes and prostate, as well as promoting secondary sexual characteristics like increased muscle and bone mass.

History

Testosterone was first isolated in 1935, and synthetic versions were developed shortly thereafter. It has been used in medicine since the 1940s.

Regulation and Legal Status

Testosterone is a controlled substance in many countries due to its potential for abuse and side effects. It is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States.

Also see

• Androgen replacement therapy
• Anabolic steroid
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Endocrinology

External links

• Drugs.com: Testosterone
• Mayo Clinic: Testosterone

Testosterone (medication)

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  Testosterone molecule ball

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  Androderm testosterone skin patch

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  Depo-testosterone 200 mg/ml