PHAR4007–E1

2. Antibodies have become increasingly widespread as therapeutic alternatives to treat
diseases/disorders.

a) Briefly outline the properties of monoclonal antibodies that make them useful as
therapeutic options.
[2.5 marks]

b) Identify reservations or disadvantages about the use of monoclonal antibodies in
the clinic.
[2.5 marks]

c) Identify TWO antibodies designed to target named G protein–coupled receptors, the
tissue/cellular locations of those targets and the disease/disorder the antibodies are
used to treat
[2.5 marks]

d) Identify TWO antibody–drug conjugates and outline how they differ from ‘simple’
monoclonal antibodies. Identify the molecular/cellular targets for their use, as well
as the disease/disorder they are intended to treat
[2.5 marks]

e) Discuss the treatment of cancers using antibodies and related biopharmaceuticals.
In your answer, compare the use of antibodies with small molecule drugs.
Making use of specific named examples,

Describe the pathology associated with the cancer, which is targetted by
treatment with those antibodies/drugs;

How the antibody/drug acts at molecular, cellular, organ and organismal level to
treat the cancer;

Contraindications, disadvantages or common adverse effects of the use of the
antibody/drug;

How the antibody/drug has been developed from predecessor versions to
improve its usefulness