← Back
Research and new methods

Bispecific antibodies: bringing an immune cell to the target

A bispecific antibody has two arms: one holds an immune T cell and the other a leukaemia cell. In this way the body's own immune cell recognises and destroys the diseased cell.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A bridge
Figure 1.A bridge — Bispecific antibodies: bringing an immune cell to the target

01Short answer

The best-known example in leukaemia links CD19 and CD3 and is used in B-cell ALL, especially when MRD is positive or at relapse. Side effects include cytokine release syndrome (fever, low blood pressure) and neurological symptoms (confusion, difficulty speaking), so the first days are often monitored in hospital. Some forms are given as a continuous infusion. New bispecific antibodies for AML are being studied.

02Simple explanation

Two arms.

Brings in the T cell.

Used in ALL.

CRS: monitored.

03Scientific explanation

NCI: a bispecific antibody can bind two different targets; some direct T cells to cancer cells.

NCI: new treatments are tested step by step, from the laboratory to clinical trials; only those proven safe and beneficial become standard care.

04What happens in the body?

CRS

Cytokine release syndrome.

An activated cell
Figure 2.An activated cell — Bispecific antibodies: bringing an immune cell to the target

ICANS

Immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity.

A patient in a hospital bed connected to an infusion line
Figure 3.A continuous infusion

How to read the news

Research news brings hope, but not every advance suits everyone. Look at who it was tested in, at what phase and in how many people.

Talk to your doctor

Show your doctor what you have read; they will explain how it relates to your diagnosis and treatment. Do not change your treatment on your own.

05From research news to a conversation: four steps

Read, check, ask, decide together.

Read — From a trusted source.1ReadFrom a trusted source.
Check — Phase, participants, result.2CheckPhase, participants, result.
Ask — Show your doctor.3AskShow your doctor.
Decide — Together, without rushing.4DecideTogether, without rushing.
SourceA trusted site.
DoctorA personal explanation.
SafetyNot changing treatment yourself.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
CRSCytokine release syndrome.
ICANSImmune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity.
How to read the newsResearch news brings hope, but not every advance suits everyone. Look at who it was tested in, at what phase and in how many people.
Talk to your doctorShow your doctor what you have read; they will explain how it relates to your diagnosis and treatment. Do not change your treatment on your own.

07Key terms

Bispecific antibody
An antibody against two targets.
T cell
An immune cell that destroys targets.
Clinical trial
Testing a new treatment with volunteers.
Evidence
A result confirmed by reliable research.

08Key points

  • Link.
  • Monitor.
  • Report.
  • Check the source.
  • Talk to your doctor.

09Frequently asked questions

Which symptoms should I report at once?

Fever, dizziness, confusion, changes in speech or shaking.

How do I live with a pump at home?

Your team will teach you the rules; do not stop the pump yourself.

Is this advance right for me?

Only your treating doctor can say, based on your diagnosis, stage and condition.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Which symptoms should I report at once?

  2. How do I live with a pump at home?

  3. Is this advance right for me?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: bispecific antibody
  2. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: cytokine release syndrome
  3. National Cancer Institute. Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®) – Patient Version
  4. National Cancer Institute. What Are Clinical Trials?
  5. National Cancer Institute. Phases of Clinical Trials
  6. National Cancer Institute. Using Trusted Resources
  7. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Find NCI-Supported Clinical Trials
  8. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Phases of Clinical Trials
  9. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Placebos in Cancer Clinical Trials
  10. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Questions to Ask About Clinical Trials
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
Last updated: ← Back to the list

Open the interactive site →