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Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are useful therapeutics for targeted treatments in oncology, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. Among the key distinctions in therapeutic mAbs are those labeled “fully human” and “humanized.” Both rely heavily on animal models—primarily mice—and genetic engineering techniques to achieve their therapeutic properties.  Fully Human mAbs: Genetic Engineering at Work  Fully human mAbs […]

Antibody pharmacokinetics (PK) is the study of how the body interacts with antibodies after administration, particularly with absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.1 It is essential in the drug development process, as it allows us to assess the antibody’s therapeutic efficacy and intensity.  There are several PK features specific to monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). For example, they show

Single-cell antibody sequencing is a technique for analyzing the genome of individual antibody-producing cells, particularly B cells. This method provides detailed insights into the diversity of the immune response by isolating and sequencing the genetic material of single cells, allowing researchers to overcome the limitations of bulk sequencing. With the ability to sequence individual cells,

A VHH library refers to a collection of single-domain antibodies, also known as nanobodies or VHHs. These antibodies are derived from camelids such as alpacas, camels, and llamas. Uniquely, VHHs are the smallest naturally derived antigen-binding fragments. Their small size, stability, and solubility make them attractive for various research and therapeutic applications.  Creation of a

Affinity maturation is the process of improving antibody affinity and binding interactions to target antigens. This is done naturally in vivo by multiple rounds of somatic hypermutation and clonal selection in the germinal center, but affinity maturation can also be processed in the lab in vitro through repeated mutagenesis and selection. This is particularly useful

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are produced from identical B lymphocytes, ensuring that they are homogenous and highly specific for their target. This specificity arises because mAbs bind to a single epitope, allowing precise targeting in various biological and therapeutic applications. Their homogeneity also provides significant advantages in research, where they are widely used to study molecular

Antibodies are versatile molecules that perform a range of effector functions, many of which engage different arms of the immune system. Their modes of action extend beyond simple antigen binding, enabling the activation of various immune mechanisms that lead to pathogen neutralization and clearance. These functions include blocking molecular interactions, activating the complement system, and

In addition to isotypes and subtypes, antibodies exhibit genetic variation known as allotypes, which are polymorphic epitopes on immunoglobulins. These allotypic differences arise from allelic variations in immunoglobulin genes, causing certain antibody subtypes to differ between individuals or ethnic groups. The presence of these polymorphic forms can influence immune responses, particularly when an individual is

Modified versions of antibodies have been designed to improve certain properties or functionalities, e.g. to enhance their therapeutic or diagnostic potential.   Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs):   Bispecific antibodies (bsAbs):   Historical Milestones in Antibody Engineering  1960s: The conceptual groundwork for bsAbs was laid. The first bispecific antibodies were described when Fabs from two polyclonal sera were re-associated into F(ab’)2 molecules

The use of microfluidics to precisely control fluid behavior in micro- and nano-environments has enabled the development of advanced platforms like lab-on-a-chip and organ-on-a-chip systems. These technologies have drastically improved our ability to conduct high-throughput screenings, precise cell sorting, and complex biochemical assays, contributing to significant advancements in drug discovery, diagnostics, and personalized medicine.  Lab-on-a-Chip: