Tumour marker

Some cancers carry particular proteins on their cell surfaces. These can act as tumour markers and provide targets for monoclonal antibodies. Before treatment, a tumour may therefore need to be tested to find out whether it has the target matched by a particular antibody.

Some cancer cells carry surface antigens, often called tumour markers, that can be targeted by monoclonal antibodies. An antibody that binds such a marker may help the immune system attack the cell. It may instead be used to carry a drug or radioactive substance towards cells bearing the marker, or to block a receptor involved in stimulating cell division.