Autoantibodies against tumor-associated antigens as one class of serological markers

Abstract

This review is devoted to modern notions about autoantibodies (AAb) as one of classes of tumor biomarkers. Principles of humoral response by way of autoantibodies to different tumor-associated proteins in the process of malignant tumor progression are considered. During carcinogenesis self-proteins may become overexpressed, mutant, undergo posttranslational modification, localize abnormally, degrade aberrantly, becoming immunogenic and, as a result, be recognized by immune system as allogeneic. Advantages of AAb as biomarkers over its ligands – tumor antigens – are discussed.Data regarding a diagnostic value of some AAb are given, modern methods of its assessment are considered. Possibilities of AAb using in screening, aimed at active diagnostics of cancer on early stages as well as

Keywords

• tumor antigens
• autoantibodies
• immune response
• screening
• prognosis of tumor outcome