What are monoclonal antibodies used for in research?
Scientists have found ways of attaching fluorescent dye to monoclonal antibodies so that when they bind to particolar molecules in cells, the cell will fluoresce.
Why might fluorescent binding be useful in the future?
Operations to remove malignant cells is difficult as some of the cells may not be removed. If the cells were fluorescent then the surgeon could see all the tumour and remove it.
Monoclonal antibodies can be bound to a radioactive substance, a toxic drug or a chemical that stops cells from dividing. The antibody can target specific cells and deliver the substance.
Why is it useful to deliver a drug using monoclonal antibodies?
The drug treatment can be targeted, and only specific cells will get the drug. If a cell does not have the antibody binding site it will not be affected or damaged.