Revolutionizing acute myeloid leukemia treatment: a systematic review of immune-based therapies

The established protocol for the management of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has traditionally involved the administration of induction chemotherapy, followed by consolidation chemotherapy, and subsequent allogeneic stem cell transplantation for eligible patients. However, the prognosis for individuals with relapsed and refractory AML remains unfavorable. In response to the necessity for more efficacious therapeutic modalities, targeted immunotherapy has emerged as a promising advancement in AML treatment. This comprehensive review article specifically examines classical unconjugated and toxin-conjugated monoclonal antibodies, which are currently in the preclinical phase or undergoing evaluation in clinical trials. The review delves into the proposed mechanisms through which these monoclonal antibodies elicit anti-tumor activity and identifies the challenges associated with designing targeted immunotherapy. The review focuses on targeting specific antigens in AML, including FLT3/CD125, CLL-1, CD33, CD38, CD47, CD70, and CD123.