Which type of monoclonal antibody is characterized as “naked”?

The term “naked” monoclonal antibodies refers to unmodified antibodies that have not been attached to a drug, toxin, or radioactive material. These antibodies function by binding to specific antigens on target cells, such as cancer cells, and can mediate immune responses or mark these cells for destruction by the immune system.

Naked monoclonal antibodies are crucial in cancer therapy as they utilize the body's immune system more directly to target and eliminate malignant cells. They can be used alone or in combination with other treatments, offering flexibility in therapeutic strategies.

In contrast, conjugated monoclonal antibodies are designed with a therapeutic payload (like a drug or toxin) linked to the antibody, allowing for targeted delivery of these agents. Bispecific monoclonal antibodies are engineered to bind two different antigens or sites, which is distinct from the standard single-target approach taken by naked antibodies. Recombinant antibodies refer to those that are genetically engineered, and although some could be naked, the term is broader and not specifically reserved for unmodified antibodies. Thus, the characterization of “naked” specifically applies to unmodified antibodies, making it the correct choice in this context.