Immunotherapeutic perspective for bispecific antibodies

Biospecific antibodies (BsAb) can, by virtue of combining two binding speci ficities, improve the selectivity and efficacy of antibody-based treatment of human disease. Recent studies underline the importance of both the 'anti -trigger' and 'anti-target' modalities of BsAb for therapeutic efficacy. Se veral BsAb induce effective cytotoxicity as well as 'vaccine effects' in vi vo. Here, Annemiek van Spriel and colleagues discuss how these results have catalysed renewed efforts to translate BsAb concepts into effective therap ies.