For example, several fusion proteins have been constructed by combining the binding domain of a cell surface receptor with the tail (Fc) portion of an antibody. The receptor portion functions as a decoy binding site to attract and capture molecules that would otherwise contribute to disease. The antibody portion enables the fusion protein to remain in the body much longer than a circulating receptor would last on its own.
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A fusion protein combines the attributes of more than one protein in a way that enhances its ability to treat disease.