The targeting of surface antigens expressed on tumor cells by monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) has revolutionized cancer therapeutics. One mechanism of action of antibody-based immunotherapy is the activation of immune effector cells to mediate antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). This review will summarize the process of ADCC, its important role in the efficacy of mAb therapy, how to measure it, and finally future strategies for antibody design that can take advantage of it to improve clinical performance.
Statement of Significance:Targeted mAb therapy represents a promising therapeutic strategy for many cancer types. ADCC is a crucial mechanism underlying targeted antibody-based immunotherapy approaches. Many patients have limited responses to mAb therapy and there is a great need for antibodies with enhanced clinical efficacy. Designing and engineering antibodies with enhanced ADCC eliciting properties will improve patient outcomes.