Targeting tumor cells

Several recent scientific and technical developments have made it possible to postulate the use of the 'magic bullet' concept; that is, the identification of specific antigens present on tumor cells that can be targeted either by therapeutic antibodies or by small molecules. The use of monoclonal antibodies in cancer, in particular, has moved beyond the proof-of-concept stage, and many such antibodies are presently being tested in the clinic. Several antibodies have been successfully developed and are now in use against various cancers, and we can expect many more to become available in the next few years. The use and development of these new therapeutics represent significant opportunities but also new challenges.