ANTIBODY DIRECTED ENZYME PRODRUG THERAPY

 Antibody Directed Enzyme Prodrug Therapy (ADEPT)

Ehealthconcerns has brought again a new sensational technology for treating the cancer by the name of ADEPT under the heading of “ARTICLES ON CANCER”

ADEPT is a new type of cancer treatment,   drugs used called monoclonal antibodies|, (Antibodies produced by a single cell) (substances that can locate and bind to cancer cells wherever they are in the body) or antibodies made in the lab to lock onto specific antigens. Antigens are substances that can be recognized by the immune system. Monoclonal antibodies are used in chemotherapy and radioactive substances, to deliver cancer treatment directly to cancer cells, not healthy

Monoclonal antibodies

Monoclonal antibodies are used to try to destroy the cancer cells, while causing little harm to normal cells. They recognize the protein on the surface of the cancer cell and lock onto it. Some monoclonal antibodies can then trigger (activate) the body’s immune system to attack the cancer cells and can also cause the cells to destroy themselves. 

 In cancer treatment, monoclonal antibodies have a cancer drug or radioactive substance attached to them. They can be used in this way to deliver treatment directly to the cancer cell. This is known as targeted therapy.

How ADEPT works

ADEPT is a type of targeted therapy. It uses a monoclonal antibody to carry an enzyme directly to the cancer cells. Enzymes are proteins that control chemical reactions in the body. First, the monoclonal antibody is given (with the enzyme attached). A few hours later, a second drug (the pro-drug) is given. 

When the pro-drug comes into contact with the enzyme, a reaction takes place. This reaction activates the pro-drug and it's then able to destroy the cancer cells. As the enzyme does not attach to normal cells, this treatment does not affect them.

What it looks like

ADEPT is a colorless fluid.

How it is given

ADEPT is given by a drip (infusion) through a small tube (cannula) inserted into a vein. The monoclonal antibody and the pro-drug are usually given in two separate doses on the same day.

Possible side effects

Trials are looking at the side effects that may occur. As ADEPT is still a relatively new treatment, it's too early to know all of the possible side effects. However, the following appear to be the most common:

• Flu-like symptoms

These may include a high temperature, chills, headache, itching, joint and muscle pain. These symptoms may occur a few hours after the treatment is given, but don't last for more than a day or two.

• Allergic reaction

Signs of an allergic reaction include skin rashes and itching, high temperatures, shivering, redness of the face, dizziness, headache, breathlessness & anxiety. Pt should be monitored for any sign of an allergic reaction during treatment.  If Pt already (any problem) inform to doctor or nurse the action must be taken as it can help in the better treatment of the patient.

Increased risk of infection A temporary reduction in Pt white blood cells may occur a few days after the treatment is given. If this happens, Pt more likely to get an infection during this period. Dr or nurse will advise about this and other precautions. Your white blood cells usually recover in 3–4 weeks.

• Nausea (feeling, vomiting). This may begin a few hours after ADEPT has been given and may last for a few days. Your doctor can prescribe (anti-emetic) drugs to prevent or reduce nausea and vomiting.