What is the main purpose of using monoclonal antibodies?

The main purpose of using monoclonal antibodies lies in their ability to target specific cells or proteins, which is particularly valuable in both diagnostic and therapeutic contexts. Monoclonal antibodies are engineered to recognize and bind to particular antigens, which can be found on the surface of specific types of cells, such as cancer cells or pathogens. This specificity allows them to be used in various applications, including identifying diseases (diagnostics). For instance, they can be employed in laboratory tests to detect the presence of specific diseases or markers associated with certain conditions.

In therapeutic settings, monoclonal antibodies can be used to treat diseases by directly targeting harmful cells or proteins. For example, in cancer therapy, certain monoclonal antibodies are designed to bind to receptors on cancer cells, helping the immune system to identify and destroy them or blocking the signals that promote cancer cell growth. Moreover, their ability to serve as precision therapeutics makes them invaluable in modern medicine, especially in oncology, immunology, and infectious diseases.

Other options do not align with the primary use of monoclonal antibodies. Enhancing photosynthesis pertains to plant biology and does not involve antibodies. Creating genetically modified organisms involves techniques like recombinant DNA technology rather than the application of monoclonal antibodies. Extract