Monoclonal Antibody — What It Means in Clinical Trials

Plain English Definition

A monoclonal antibody is a laboratory-made protein designed to attach to a specific target on cells, like a lock-and-key system. These targets are often proteins found on cancer cells or immune cells. Monoclonal antibodies can mark cancer cells for destruction, block growth signals, or deliver drugs directly to tumors. Drug names ending in "-mab" are monoclonal antibodies.

Why It Matters

Many of the newest cancer drugs are monoclonal antibodies. They are usually given as infusions at a clinic, so trial participation may involve regular clinic visits for treatment.

Example