Introduction—Monoclonal antibody therapy for hematologic malignancies: Prospects for an integrated therapy approach

A SYMPOSIUM entitled “Monoclonal Antibody Therapy for Hematologic Malignancies: Prospects for an Integrated Therapy Approach” was held prior to the 41~ Annual Meeting of the American Society of Hematology in December 1999 in New Orleans, LA. Sponsored by the Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Stanford University Department of Medicine, the symposium featured a distinguished group of investigators who reviewed recent developments in monoclonal antibody therapy, with an emphasis on the potential for integration of these agents with conventional treatment modalities. This supplement to Seminars in Hematology highlights key findings and presentations from this meeting and provides an important base for future research, analyses, and discussions in this important area of investigation. In addition to updating current research, the articles by Drs Press and Reed are intended to provide clinicians with information on the principles of radiation physics and apoptosis, respectively, as they apply to monoclonal antibody therapy. These articles are followed by contributions from Drs Maloney and Horning, who review the principles for optimal integration of monoclonal antibodies with other forms of treatment and the current status of investigations into combined treatment. Next, Dr Davis examines the many novel antibodies and antibody-based agents looming on the horizon. Finally, Dr Levy, one of the patriarchs of the field, provides a perspective on how monoclonal antibody therapy has evolved and the directions in which it is headed. After two decades of research, recent breakthroughs have led to a partial realization of the vast therapeutic potential of the rapidly expanding group of therapeutic antibodies. The benefits that have been achieved are a tribute to the persistence of hundreds of researchers who worked to overcome setbacks on the road to the discovery of effective monoclonal antibody therapies. There is now a great opportunity for clinicians and patients throughout the world to contribute to the further development of this exciting field through their participation in the many important clinical trials that are now underway. Such trials will accelerate a more complete understanding of the value of these agents and the delivery of these new advances to patients everywhere.