Monoclonal antibodies: new chance in the management of B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Objectives: This review aims to see the progress of several clinically-used monoclonal antibodies in treating ALL patients and how they improved patients' outcomes. Methods: We searched Web of Science, Elsevier and PubMed for relevant published studies, and summarized eligible evidence on the management of newly-diagnosed and relapsed or refractory ALL with monoclonal antibodies. Ongoing trials were identified from ClinicalTrials.gov. Results: Rituximab, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, prolonged patients' complete remission duration and overall survival when combined with hyper-CVAD regimen. Another anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, Ofatumumab, was reported to have similar benefits. Blinatumomab allows endogenous CD3-positive cytotoxic T cells to target and eliminate CD19-positive blasts. FDA has approved its efficacy in patients with R/R B-ALL and eliminating minimal residual disease (MRD). It serves as a bridge to eradicate MRD before transplantation, and may also be a new choice for patients unable to undergo transplantation. An anti-CD22 monoclonal antibody named Inotuzumab Ozogamicin showed great improvement in patients' outcome, but its toxicity to liver is also worthy of our attention. Conclusion: Monoclonal antibodies are proven to be a promising immunotherapeutic strategy to improve ALL patients' outcome in the long term. There's still a need for individualized treatment with effective and well-tolerated medicines.

Automated summary

This review examines the progress of monoclonal antibodies in treating ALL patients and their impact on patient outcomes. The study finds that monoclonal antibodies such as Rituximab and Blinatumomab can prolong remission duration and improve overall survival in ALL patients. The use of these antibodies also shows promise in eliminating minimal residual disease. However, there are concerns regarding the potential toxicity of some antibodies on the liver.