Definition of monoclonal antibody - NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms

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monoclonal antibody (MAH-noh-KLOH-nul AN-tih-BAH-dee)

A type of protein made in the laboratory that can locate and bind to substances in the body, including tumor cells. There are many kinds of monoclonal antibodies. Each monoclonal antibody is made to find one substance. Monoclonal antibodies are being used to treat some types of cancer and are being studied in the treatment of other types. They can be used alone or to carry drugs, toxins, or radioactive materials directly to a tumor.

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