Advances in the use of monoclonal antibodies in cancer radiotherapy

The use of monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) as radiation carriers in argeted radiotherapy of cancers has produced striking clinical responses in hematologic diseases, such as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Novel strategies are currently being examined in an effort to improve efficacy in solid tumor therapies. Two of these strategies involve minimizing the systemic toxicity of a circulating radionuclide via ‘pretargeting’, and the sensitization of tumors to radiation by combination therapy with radiosensitizing drugs. Advances made in radiolabeling chemistries and in the use of alpha-particle emitters can also improve utility. Clinical evidence suggests that radioimmunotherapy may be best applied in minimal-disease and adjuvant settings in combination with other cancer therapy modalities.