Health Information
Monoclonal Antibodies for Cancer Treatment
How It Works
Monoclonal antibodies are substances that attach only to certain proteins in the body (like a key in a lock). They are produced in a lab.
Bevacizumab blocks a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) that helps cancer cells grow and multiply. Bevacizumab inhibits the ability of the cancer to form and grow new blood vessels.
Cetuximab and panitumumab block a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) that helps cancer cells grow and multiply.
Monoclonal antibodies may not work for some people. So before you have this treatment, your tumor tissue will be checked for certain gene changes (mutations), such as the wild-type KRAS mutation.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: September 5, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference Kenneth Bark, MD - Surgery, Colon and Rectal |
|
© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
