Conclusion
The introduction of mAbs into the clinic has fundamentally changed
cancer therapy. Nevertheless, it has increasingly become apparent that
mAbs mediate their effects via a multitude of different mechanisms of
action. Since the selection of the correct Ig isotype was recognised as
crucial, much effort was put into understanding the Fc-mediated effects
of different antibody isotypes as well as into Fc-modifications for
further improvement of mAbs efficacy. Consequently, several strategies
have been developed in order to optimise Fc-mediated effector functions,
opening entirely novel opportunities to improve mAbs-based cancer
therapy. Furthermore, by considering patient-related factors such as
their immune status, characteristics of the TME or FcγR polymorphism,
the isotype selection may either allow for the development of antibodies
that are active in a wider range of patients or may allow for the
selective use of antibodies tailored towards the individual’s needs.
Such considerations may lead us one step further to patient-tailored
medicine and more effective mAb treatment in the future.