Antibody Fusion Proteins

Book excerpt: Thoroughly detailed and illustrated, this book examines the construction, properties, applications, and problems associated with specific types of fusion molecules used in clinical and research medicine. The editors present an overview of the field, followed by nine chapters divided into two general sections based on the two primary parts of the antibody molecule: Fab fusion proteins and Fc fusion proteins. In addition, numerous renowned scientists in the field have contributed outlines demonstrating man-made molecules that will be required not only to overcome the limitations of monoclonal antibodies, but also to extend the principle of selective targeting. Divided into specific, accessible sections, Antibody Fusion Proteins includes: * Chapters describing Fc fusion proteins, as well as several classes of antigen-binding proteins * Complete details on the design and molecular construction of genetically engineered fusion molecules * Useful information on molecular purification, large-scale production, practical applications, and their therapeutic potential * The latest data on forming fusion proteins with toxins, cytokines, or enzymes that can activate a prodrug