Role of antibody-based therapy in indolent non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

Monoclonal antibodies (mAb) for indolent non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (iNHL) including follicular and marginal zone lymphomas was a key therapeutic development that changed the natural history of these diseases. Rituximab, a chimeric anti-CD20 mAb, was the first immunotherapy ever used in cancer, and a current cornerstone of lymphoma therapies. Since, we saw development of humanized antibodies, next generations anti-CD20, mAbs targeting other markers on tumor cells (CD19 and CD22), its microenvironment (PD-1, CD47), antibody drug conjugates and bispecific T cell engagers. Given their activity, safety and specificity, mAbs are well poised to remain an essential therapeutic tool for iNHL and other malignancies.