Delong Liu

Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA

Abstract

Since the approval of first generation CD20antibody, rituximab, lab research has quickly brought second and third generation of CD20 antibodies (ofatumumab and obinutuzumab) to clinical immunotherapy of B cell malignancies. Brentuximab vedotin, an antibody-drug conjugate, represents another class of monoclonal antibodies for lymphoma therapy. Recently, blinatumomab, a BiTe (bispecific T cell engager) antibody, was approved for refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Chimeric antigen receptor-engineered T cells showed clinical benefits in refractory CLL and ALL. AFM13, a tetravalent bispecific antibody, showed activity in early clinical trials. Ibrutinib, a small molecule inhibitor of Bruton's tyrosinekinase, embodes another revolutionary approach in lymphoma therapy. Combination therapy for “double-hit” and “triple-hit” lymphomas may lead to further improvement toward the cure of B cell malignancies.

Key Words: lymphoma  immunotherapy