[Monoclonal antibodies, overview and outlook of a promising therapeutic option].

Rising numbers of approved monoclonal antibodies for cancer, autoimmune and cardiovascular disease treatment underline the growing importance of this therapeutic option which has been discovered in the late 19th century. However, clinical trials and commercial use started in the late 20th century. The specific mode of action and clinical advantages over standard strategies signify a big step forward not only in terms of treating cancer but various other diseases like psoriasis and multiple sclerosis. New developments in the field of biologicals raise hope for an even broader scope of applications and options for currently untreatable diseases. The following article summarizes the historical development, the status-quo of clinical approvement and current development of monoclonal antibody therapy. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.