INTRODUCTION
Distinctly different from immunosuppressive chemotherapy, biotherapy agents used to treat cancer have recently become the center of cancer research. Agents covered in this presentation include biologic response modifiers, or immunotherapy growth factors; monoclonal antibodies; interferons; interleukins; vaccines; and gene therapy.

After completing this activity, the participant should be able to:

• 1. identify three major benefits of using targeted biologic agents in anticancer therapy.
• 2. explain the anticancer mechanisms of action of the biotherapy agents.
• 3. list the agents known as cytokines, monoclonal antibodies, and immunomodulators.
• 4. describe two clinical benefits of modulating immune response and hematopoiesis.
• 5. discuss important nursing implications when caring for patients receiving biologic agents for cancer treatment.