Rituximab is a type of monoclonal antibody that is used in the treatment of leukemia, specifically in the form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). It works by targeting a specific protein called CD20, which is present on the surface of B cells. B cells are a type of white blood cell that play a role in the immune system, but they can also become cancerous and contribute to the development of NHL.

The mechanism of action of rituximab involves binding to CD20 on the surface of B cells and triggering an immune response that leads to the destruction of these cells. When rituximab binds to CD20, it can trigger several different mechanisms to destroy the B cells, including:

1.    Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC): In this process, the rituximab binds to CD20 on the B cells, which then activates immune cells such as natural killer cells to attack and destroy the cancerous cells.

2.    Complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC): Rituximab can also activate the complement system, which is a group of proteins that can attach to and destroy the B cells.

3.    Induction of apoptosis: Rituximab can also cause the B cells to undergo programmed cell death, known as apoptosis, which helps to remove the cancerous cells from the body.

Rituximab is usually given as an intravenous infusion in combination with other chemotherapy drugs. The treatment is typically administered in cycles, with each cycle lasting a few weeks, followed by a period of rest. The number of cycles and duration of treatment may vary depending on the individual's condition and response to treatment.

Overall, rituximab is an effective treatment option for patients with NHL, and its mechanism of action helps to specifically target cancerous B cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells.
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