Rituximab

Rituximan is a humanized monoclonal antibody which has proven to be highly effective in resistant/relapsed low grade B cell lymphomas and is now available as first line therapy. It is particularly useful in patients older than 65. Rituximab binds to the antigen CD20, a transmembrane protein which regulates activating the process initiating cell cycle and differentiation. Rituximab causes lysis of the B lymphocytes by a) direct signalling , b) activating the complement cascade and c) immune effector cells (ADCC). Cd20 is widely expressed in B-Cell ontogeny and is found in normal and malignant pre-B and mature B lymphocytes, including those in over 90% of B-cell NHL. Rituximab depletes B lymphocytes from peripheral blood, lymph nodes and bone marrow, but does not affect hematopoietic stem cells. CD20 is absent in hematopoietic stem cells, activated B lymphocytes (plasma cells) and normal tissues. The accompanying menu will let you explore thia a bit more fully. Spectrum of activity of Anti-CD20 Mechanisms of action Mechanisms of resistance Potential uses of Rituximab Relapsed Hodgkin's disease Synergy with chemotherapy Autologous stem cell purging Combined monoclonal antibody treatment Soluble CD20 levels and outcome(sCD20) Better monoclonal antibodies