Antibodies for Treating Cancer: Basics, Development, and Applications

This book presents a compact overview of the history, evolution and fascinating novel applications of antibodies for the treatment of cancer, leading the reader step by step to the latest advances. Interesting anecdotes, together with self-explanatory and clearly structured figures with a humorous touch, facilitate the reader’s understanding of this complex topic. Clinical cases round out the book, making it a valuable aid for professionals in their everyday practice. The growing importance of the topics covered here was highlighted by the joint award of the 2018 Nobel Prize in Chemistry to Frances H. Arnold (directed evolution of enzymes), George P. Smith (phage display of peptides) and Sir Gregory P. Winter (phage display of antibodies). Furthermore, the 2018 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to James P. Allison and Tasuku Honjo for their discovery of cancer therapy by inhibition of negative immune regulation. Many of the antibodies that are now being brought to market target precisely these immune checkpoint modulators. The book addresses a broad readership, ranging from professionals and experts in the field to residents and medical students.

About the Author

Melvyn Little received his degree in chemistry and PhD in biochemistry from Bangor University, Wales and subsequently completed a Postdoc at the Max-Planck-Institute for Cell Biology in Wilhelmshaven, Germany. He has served as head of the Research Group “Recombinant Antibodies” at the German Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg and as an External Professor of Biochemistry at Heidelberg University.

In addition, he was a Co-founder and Supervisory Board Member of the biotech firm Affitech in Oslo, Norway, as well as Founder and Management Board Member of the biotech firm Affimed in Heidelberg.

His primary research interest is in the development of dual binding antibodies for recruiting killer immune cells to destroy tumor cells. Currently he is in retirement and a biotechnology consultant.