immunoconjugates

Immunoconjugates are molecules created by linking an antibody or antibody fragment to another molecule. This other molecule can be a therapeutic agent, a diagnostic marker, a radioisotope, or even another protein. The primary purpose of creating an immunoconjugate is to leverage the specificity of the antibody to deliver the attached payload to a particular target. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system that can recognize and bind to specific antigens, which are typically found on the surface of cells, including cancer cells, pathogens, or other biological targets.

By conjugating a therapeutic agent, such as a chemotherapy drug or a toxin, to an antibody that specifically binds to cancer cells, immunoconjugates can deliver the cytotoxic agent directly to the tumor while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. This targeted approach can enhance treatment efficacy and reduce systemic side effects. Similarly, immunoconjugates can be used for diagnostic purposes, where the antibody carries a detectable marker like a fluorescent dye or a radioisotope to visualize or locate specific cells or tissues. The field of immunoconjugates is a rapidly evolving area of biotechnology and medicine, with significant potential for treating a wide range of diseases.