CD20-based Immunotherapy of B-cell Derived Hematologic Malignancies

Background: CD20 is a surface antigen, which is expressed at certain stages of B-cell differentiation. Targeting the CD20-positive B-cells with therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) has been an effectual strategy in the treatment of hematologic malignancies such as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Initial success with Rituximab (RTX) has encouraged the creation and development of more effective CD20 based therapeutics. However, treatment with conventional MAbs has not been adequate to overcome the problems such as refractory/ relapsed disease. In this regard, new generations of MAbs with enhanced affinity or improved anti-tumor properties have been developed. Keywords: Bispecific antibody, bispecific T-cell engager, chimeric antigen receptor, antibody drug conjugate, monoclonal antibody, lymphoma, leukemia, targeted therapy.