How is Immunotherapy Used in Treating Infectious Diseases?
Immunotherapy for infectious diseases can take several forms:
1. Monoclonal Antibodies: Lab-made molecules that can mimic the immune system's ability to fight off harmful pathogens. These have been particularly useful against Ebola and COVID-19. 2. Checkpoint Inhibitors: These drugs help to unleash the immune system, allowing it to attack infections more effectively. They are more commonly used in cancer treatment but have potential in infectious diseases. 3. Cytokine Therapy: Cytokines are proteins that help modulate the immune response. Interferons are a type of cytokine that can be used to treat viral infections like Hepatitis C.
