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Wang H, Song M, Xu J, Liu Z, Peng M, Qin H, Wang S, Wang Z, Liu K. Long-Acting Strategies for Antibody Drugs: Structural Modification, Controlling Release, and Changing the Administration Route. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet 2024; 49:295-316. [PMID: 38635015 DOI: 10.1007/s13318-024-00891-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Because of their high specificity, high affinity, and targeting, antibody drugs have been widely used in the treatment of many diseases and have become the most favored new drugs for research in the world. However, some antibody drugs (such as small-molecule antibody fragments) have a short half-life and need to be administered frequently, and are often associated with injection-site reactions and local toxicities during use. Increasing attention has been paid to the development of antibody drugs that are long-acting and have fewer side effects. This paper reviews existing strategies to achieve long-acting antibody drugs, including modification of the drug structure, the application of drug delivery systems, and changing their administration route. Among these, microspheres have been studied extensively regarding their excellent tolerance at the injection site, controllable loading and release of drugs, and good material safety. Subcutaneous injection is favored by most patients because it can be quickly self-administered. Subcutaneous injection of microspheres is expected to become the focus of developing long-lasting antibody drug strategies in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Marine Biomedical Science and Technology Innovation Platform of Lin-gang Special Area, Shanghai Ocean University, Hucheng Ring Road, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Mengdi Song
- Marine Biomedical Science and Technology Innovation Platform of Lin-gang Special Area, Shanghai Ocean University, Hucheng Ring Road, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Jiaqi Xu
- Marine Biomedical Science and Technology Innovation Platform of Lin-gang Special Area, Shanghai Ocean University, Hucheng Ring Road, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Zhenjing Liu
- Marine Biomedical Science and Technology Innovation Platform of Lin-gang Special Area, Shanghai Ocean University, Hucheng Ring Road, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Mingyue Peng
- Marine Biomedical Science and Technology Innovation Platform of Lin-gang Special Area, Shanghai Ocean University, Hucheng Ring Road, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Haoqiang Qin
- Marine Biomedical Science and Technology Innovation Platform of Lin-gang Special Area, Shanghai Ocean University, Hucheng Ring Road, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Shaoqian Wang
- Marine Biomedical Science and Technology Innovation Platform of Lin-gang Special Area, Shanghai Ocean University, Hucheng Ring Road, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Ziyang Wang
- Marine Biomedical Science and Technology Innovation Platform of Lin-gang Special Area, Shanghai Ocean University, Hucheng Ring Road, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Kehai Liu
- College of Food, Shanghai Ocean University, 999 Hucheng Ring Road, Nanhui New Town, Pudong New Area, Shanghai, 201306, China.
- Marine Biomedical Science and Technology Innovation Platform of Lin-gang Special Area, Shanghai Ocean University, Hucheng Ring Road, Shanghai, 201306, China.
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Ma X, Wang M, Ying T, Wu Y. Reforming solid tumor treatment: the emerging potential of smaller format antibody-drug conjugate. Antib Ther 2024; 7:114-122. [PMID: 38566971 PMCID: PMC10983081 DOI: 10.1093/abt/tbae005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, substantial therapeutic efficacy of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) has been validated through approvals of 16 ADCs for the treatment of malignant tumors. However, realization of the maximum clinical use of ADCs requires surmounting extant challenges, mainly the limitations in tumor penetration capabilities when targeting solid tumors. To resolve the hurdle of suboptimal tumor penetration, miniaturized antibody fragments with engineered formats have been harnessed for ADC assembly. By virtue of their reduced molecular sizes, antibody fragment-drug conjugates hold considerable promise for efficacious delivery of cytotoxic agents, thus conferring superior therapeutic outcomes. This review will focus on current advancements in novel ADC development utilizing smaller antibody formats from ~6 to 80 kDa, with particular emphasis on single-domain antibodies, which have been widely applied in novel ADC design. Additionally, strategies to optimize clinical translation are discussed, including half-life extension, acceleration of internalization, and reduction of immunogenic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojie Ma
- MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms and Infection, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Mingkai Wang
- MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms and Infection, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Tianlei Ying
- MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms and Infection, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Synthetic Immunology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yanling Wu
- MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms and Infection, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Synthetic Immunology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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Harmsen MM, Ackerschott B, de Smit H. Serum immunoglobulin or albumin binding single-domain antibodies that enable tailored half-life extension of biologics in multiple animal species. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1346328. [PMID: 38352869 PMCID: PMC10862077 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1346328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Single-domain antibody fragments (sdAbs) can be isolated from heavy-chain-only antibodies that occur in camelids or the heavy chain of conventional antibodies, that also occur in camelids. Therapeutic application of sdAbs is often complicated by their low serum half-life. Fusion to sdAb that bind to long-lived serum proteins albumin or IgG can prolong serum half-life of fusion partners. Such studies mostly focused on human application. For half-life prolongation in multiple animal species novel species cross-reacting sdAb are needed. We here describe the isolation from immunized llamas of sdAbs G6 and G13 that bound IgG of 9-10 species analysed, including horse, dog, cat, and swine, as well as sdAb A12 that bound horse, dog, swine and cat albumin. A12 bound albumin with 13 to 271 nM affinity dependent on the species. G13 affinity was difficult to determine by biolayer interferometry due to low and heterogeneous signals. G13 and G6 compete for the same binding domain on Fab fragments. Furthermore, they both lack the hallmark residues typical of camelid sdAbs derived from heavy-chain antibodies and had sequence characteristics typical of human sdAbs with high solubility and stability. This suggests they are derived from conventional llama antibodies. They most likely bind IgG through pairing with VL domains at the VH-VL interface rather than a paratope involving complementarity determining regions. None of the isolated sdAb interfered with FcRn binding to albumin or IgG, and thus do not prevent endosomal albumin/IgG-sdAb complex recycling. Fusions of albumin-binding sdAb A12 to several tetanus neurotoxin (TeNT) binding sdAbs prolonged the terminal serum half-life in piglets to about 4 days, comparable to authentic swine albumin. However, G13 conferred a much lower half-life of 0.84 days. Similarly, in horse, G13 prolonged half-life to only 1.2 days whereas A12 fused to two TeNT binding domains (T6T16A12) had a half-life of 21 days. The high half-life of T6T16A12, which earlier proved to be a highly potent TeNT antitoxin, further supports its therapeutic value. Furthermore, we have identified several additional sdAbs that enable tailored half-life extension of biologicals in multiple animal species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiel M. Harmsen
- Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Wageningen University & Research, Lelystad, Netherlands
| | | | - Hans de Smit
- Research and Development, Smivet B.V., Wijchen, Netherlands
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Wagner TR, Blaess S, Leske IB, Frecot DI, Gramlich M, Traenkle B, Kaiser PD, Seyfried D, Maier S, Rezza A, Sônego F, Thiam K, Pezzana S, Zeck A, Gouttefangeas C, Scholz AM, Nueske S, Maurer A, Kneilling M, Pichler BJ, Sonanini D, Rothbauer U. Two birds with one stone: human SIRPα nanobodies for functional modulation and in vivo imaging of myeloid cells. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1264179. [PMID: 38164132 PMCID: PMC10757926 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1264179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Signal-regulatory protein α (SIRPα) expressed by myeloid cells is of particular interest for therapeutic strategies targeting the interaction between SIRPα and the "don't eat me" ligand CD47 and as a marker to monitor macrophage infiltration into tumor lesions. To address both approaches, we developed a set of novel human SIRPα (hSIRPα)-specific nanobodies (Nbs). We identified high-affinity Nbs targeting the hSIRPα/hCD47 interface, thereby enhancing antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis. For non-invasive in vivo imaging, we chose S36 Nb as a non-modulating binder. By quantitative positron emission tomography in novel hSIRPα/hCD47 knock-in mice, we demonstrated the applicability of 64Cu-hSIRPα-S36 Nb to visualize tumor infiltration of myeloid cells. We envision that the hSIRPα-Nbs presented in this study have potential as versatile theranostic probes, including novel myeloid-specific checkpoint inhibitors for combinatorial treatment approaches and for in vivo stratification and monitoring of individual responses during cancer immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa R. Wagner
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Simone Blaess
- Werner Siemens Imaging Center, Department of Preclinical Imaging and Radiopharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Inga B. Leske
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Desiree I. Frecot
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marius Gramlich
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Bjoern Traenkle
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Philipp D. Kaiser
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Dominik Seyfried
- Werner Siemens Imaging Center, Department of Preclinical Imaging and Radiopharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sandra Maier
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Amélie Rezza
- Preclinical Models & Services, genOway, Lyon, France
| | | | - Kader Thiam
- Preclinical Models & Services, genOway, Lyon, France
| | - Stefania Pezzana
- Werner Siemens Imaging Center, Department of Preclinical Imaging and Radiopharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Anne Zeck
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Cécile Gouttefangeas
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Armin M. Scholz
- Livestock Center of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Stefan Nueske
- Livestock Center of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Andreas Maurer
- Werner Siemens Imaging Center, Department of Preclinical Imaging and Radiopharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Manfred Kneilling
- Werner Siemens Imaging Center, Department of Preclinical Imaging and Radiopharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bernd J. Pichler
- Werner Siemens Imaging Center, Department of Preclinical Imaging and Radiopharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Dominik Sonanini
- Werner Siemens Imaging Center, Department of Preclinical Imaging and Radiopharmacy, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Medical Oncology and Pneumology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Rothbauer
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) “Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies”, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Maejima A, Suzuki S, Makabe K, Kumagai I, Asano R. Incorporation of a repeated polypeptide sequence in therapeutic antibodies as a universal masking procedure: A case study of T cell-engaging bispecific antibodies. N Biotechnol 2023; 77:80-89. [PMID: 37467927 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbt.2023.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Prodrug design is a promising approach for reducing the off-target effects of therapeutic antibodies, particularly bispecific antibodies (bsAbs) that recruit T cells for activation; this design uses masking sequences that inhibit antibody binding until they reach the tumor microenvironment, where they are removed. In this study, we propose PAS, a polypeptide sequence composed of repeated Pro, Ala, and Ser residues, as a universal masking sequence. PAS has no specificity, but can inhibit antibody binding through steric hindrance caused by its large fluid dynamic radius and disordered structure; additionally, its length can be adjusted. We fused PAS to the N-terminus of an anti-CD3 single-chain variable fragment (scFv) and a bsAb, that targets both the epidermal growth factor receptor and CD3, via a recognition sequence cleaved by cancer-related proteases. PAS integration inhibited anti-CD3 scFv binding with higher efficacy than the epitope sequence, and the extent of inhibition was proportional to the length of the PAS sequence. For masked bsAbs, T cell-binding ability, cancer growth inhibition effects, and T cell activation effects were also reduced depending on the length of PAS and were fully restored upon removing PAS sequences using protease. The masking procedure using PAS was successfully applied to another scFv. The provision to adjust the masking effects of PAS by tuning its length, makes PAS fusion a valuable tool for the universal design of prodrug antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Maejima
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Naka-cho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Saori Suzuki
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Naka-cho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Koki Makabe
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Yamagata University, 4-3-16 Jonan, Yonezawa 992-8510, Japan
| | - Izumi Kumagai
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Naka-cho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Ryutaro Asano
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 2-24-16 Naka-cho, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan; Institute of Global Innovation Research, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-8-1, Harumi-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan.
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Ji Y, Liu D, Zhu H, Bao L, Chang R, Gao X, Yin J. Unstructured Polypeptides as a Versatile Drug Delivery Technology. Acta Biomater 2023; 164:74-93. [PMID: 37075961 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Although polyethylene glycol (PEG), or "PEGylation" has become a widely applied approach for improving the efficiency of drug delivery, the immunogenicity and non-biodegradability of this synthetic polymer have prompted an evident need for alternatives. To overcome these caveats and to mimic PEG -or other natural or synthetic polymers- for the purpose of drug half-life extension, unstructured polypeptides are designed. Due to their tunable length, biodegradability, low immunogenicity and easy production, unstructured polypeptides have the potential to replace PEG as the preferred technology for therapeutic protein/peptide delivery. This review provides an overview of the evolution of unstructured polypeptides, starting from natural polypeptides to engineered polypeptides and discusses their characteristics. Then, it is described that unstructured polypeptides have been successfully applied to numerous drugs, including peptides, proteins, antibody fragments, and nanocarriers, for half-life extension. Innovative applications of unstructured peptides as releasable masks, multimolecular adaptors and intracellular delivery carriers are also discussed. Finally, challenges and future perspectives of this promising field are briefly presented. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: : Polypeptide fusion technology simulating PEGylation has become an important topic for the development of long-circulating peptide or protein drugs without reduced activity, complex processes, and kidney injury caused by PEG modification. Here we provide a detailed and in-depth review of the recent advances in unstructured polypeptides. In addition to the application of enhanced pharmacokinetic performance, emphasis is placed on polypeptides as scaffolders for the delivery of multiple drugs, and on the preparation of reasonably designed polypeptides to manipulate the performance of proteins and peptides. This review will provide insight into future application of polypeptides in peptide or protein drug development and the design of novel functional polypeptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Ji
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Dingkang Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Haichao Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Lichen Bao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ruilong Chang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiangdong Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Jun Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals and State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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Qiu H, Hosking C, Rothzerg E, Samantha A, Chen K, Kuek V, Jin H, Zhu S, Vrielink A, Lim K, Foley M, Xu J. ADR3, a next generation i-body to human RANKL, inhibits osteoclast formation and bone resorption. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:102889. [PMID: 36634847 PMCID: PMC9929471 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.102889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteoporosis is a chronic skeletal condition characterized by low bone mass and deteriorated microarchitecture of bone tissue and puts tens of millions of people at high risk of fractures. New therapeutic agents like i-bodies, a class of next-generation single-domain antibodies, are needed to overcome some limitations of conventional treatments. An i-body is a human immunoglobulin scaffold with two long binding loops that mimic the shape and position of those found in shark antibodies, the variable new antigen receptors of sharks. Its small size (∼12 kDa) and long binding loops provide access to drug targets, which are considered undruggable by traditional monoclonal antibodies. Here, we have successfully identified a human receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) i-body, ADR3, which demonstrates a high binding affinity to human RANKL (hRANKL) with no adverse effect on the survival or proliferation of bone marrow-derived macrophages. Differential scanning fluorimetry suggested that ADR3 is stable and able to tolerate a wide range of physical environments (including both temperature and pH). In addition, in vitro studies showed a dose-dependent inhibitory effect of ADR3 on osteoclast differentiation, podosome belt formation, and bone resorption activity. Further investigation on the mechanism of action of ADR3 revealed that it can inhibit hRANKL-mediated signaling pathways, supporting the in vitro functional observations. These clues collectively indicate that hRANKL antagonist ADR3 attenuates osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption, with the potential to serve as a novel therapeutic to protect against bone loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Qiu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Christopher Hosking
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia,AdAlta Pty. Ltd, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emel Rothzerg
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ariela Samantha
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Kai Chen
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Vincent Kuek
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia,Telethon Kids Cancer Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Haiming Jin
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Sipin Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Alice Vrielink
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Kevin Lim
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia,AdAlta Pty. Ltd, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Foley
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia,AdAlta Pty. Ltd, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jiake Xu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
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Friedrich L, Kikuchi Y, Matsuda Y, Binder U, Skerra A. Efficient secretory production of proline/alanine/serine (PAS) biopolymers in Corynebacterium glutamicum yielding a monodisperse biological alternative to polyethylene glycol (PEG). Microb Cell Fact 2022; 21:227. [PMID: 36307781 PMCID: PMC9616612 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-022-01948-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background PAS biopolymers are recombinant polypeptides comprising the small uncharged l-amino acids Pro, Ala and/or Ser which resemble the widely used poly-ethylene glycol (PEG) in terms of pronounced hydrophilicity. Likewise, their random chain behaviour in physiological solution results in a strongly expanded hydrodynamic volume. Thus, apart from their use as fusion partner for biopharmaceuticals to achieve prolonged half-life in vivo, PAS biopolymers appear attractive as substitute for PEG—or other poorly degradable chemical polymers—in many areas. As a prerequisite for the wide application of PAS biopolymers at affordable cost, we have established their highly efficient biotechnological production in Corynebacterium glutamicum serving as a well characterized bacterial host organism. Results Using the CspA signal sequence, we have secreted two representative PAS biopolymers as polypeptides with ~ 600 and ~ 1200 amino acid residues, respectively. Both PAS biopolymers were purified from the culture supernatant by means of a simple downstream process in a truly monodisperse state as evidenced by ESI–MS. Yields after purification were up to ≥ 4 g per liter culture, with potential for further increase by strain optimization as well as fermentation and bioprocess development. Beyond direct application as hydrocolloids or to exploit their rheological properties, such PAS biopolymers are suitable for site-specific chemical conjugation with pharmacologically active molecules via their unique terminal amino or carboxyl groups. To enable the specific activation of the carboxylate, without interference by the free amino group, we generated a blocked N-terminus for the PAS(1200) polypeptide simply by introducing an N-terminal Gln residue which, after processing of the signal peptide, was cyclised to a chemically inert pyroglutamyl group upon acid treatment. The fact that PAS biopolymers are genetically encoded offers further conjugation strategies via incorporation of amino acids with reactive side chains (e.g., Cys, Lys, Glu/Asp) at defined positions. Conclusions Our new PAS expression platform using Corynex® technology opens the way to applications of PASylation® technology in multiple areas such as the pharmaceutical industry, cosmetics and food technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Friedrich
- XL-protein GmbH, Lise-Meitner-Strasse 30, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Y Kikuchi
- Research Institute for Bioscience Products & Fine Chemicals, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., 1-1 Suzuki-cho, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, 210-8681, Japan
| | - Y Matsuda
- Research Institute for Bioscience Products & Fine Chemicals, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., 1-1 Suzuki-cho, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, 210-8681, Japan
| | - U Binder
- XL-protein GmbH, Lise-Meitner-Strasse 30, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - A Skerra
- XL-protein GmbH, Lise-Meitner-Strasse 30, 85354, Freising, Germany. .,Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie, Technische Universität München, Emil-Erlenmeyer-Forum 5, 85354, Freising, Germany.
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Detection of Experimental Colorectal Peritoneal Metastases by a Novel PDGFRβ-Targeting Nanobody. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14184348. [PMID: 36139509 PMCID: PMC9497196 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14184348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Colorectal cancer can metastasize to multiple distant sites. Metastases growing within the peritoneal cavity cause a high degree of morbidity and are associated with very poor survival. Moreover, peritoneal metastases are difficult to detect using conventional imaging methods. Consequently, peritoneal metastases are generally under-diagnosed and their response to therapy is difficult to assess. An extensive molecular and cellular analysis of colorectal peritoneal metastases revealed that these lesions express very high levels of specific markers that could serve as targets for imaging-based diagnosis and treatment. In the present report, we explore the potential value of one such marker, PDGFRB, to serve as a target for peritoneal metastasis detection by molecular imaging. Therefore, we generated a PDGFRB-binding llama nanobody and demonstrate its utility in detecting peritoneal metastases in mice. The clinical development of PDGFRB-targeting tracers may help to improve the diagnosis of peritoneal metastases and the clinical management of this highly aggressive disease entity. Abstract Peritoneal metastases in colorectal cancer (CRC) belong to Consensus Molecular Subtype 4 (CMS4) and are associated with poor prognosis. Conventional imaging modalities, such as Computed Tomography (CT) and Fluorodeoxyglucose-Positron Emission Tomography (FDG-PET), perform very poorly in the detection of peritoneal metastases. However, the stroma-rich nature of these lesions provides a basis for developing molecular imaging strategies. In this study, conducted from 2019 to 2021, we aimed to generate a Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor beta (PDGFRB)-binding molecular imaging tracer for the detection of CMS4 CRC, including peritoneal metastases. The expression of PDGFRB mRNA discriminated CMS4 from CMS1-3 (AUROC = 0.86 (95% CI 0.85–0.88)) and was associated with poor relapse-free survival. PDGFRB mRNA and protein levels were very high in all human peritoneal metastases examined (n = 66). Therefore, we generated a PDGFRB-targeting llama nanobody (VHH1E12). Biotin-labelled VHH1E12 bound to immobilized human and mouse PDGFRB with high affinity (EC50 human PDGFRB = 7 nM; EC50 murine PDGFRB = 0.8 nM), and to PDGFRB-expressing HEK293 cells grown in vitro. A pharmacokinetic analysis of IRDye-800CW-conjugated VHH1E12 in mice showed that the plasma half-life was 6 min. IRDye-800CW-conjugated VHH1E12 specifically accumulated in experimentally induced colorectal cancer peritoneal metastases in mice. A tissue analysis subsequently demonstrated co-localization of the nanobody with PDGFRB expression in the tumour stroma. Our results demonstrate the potential value of PDGFRB-targeted molecular imaging as a novel strategy for the non-invasive detection of CMS4 CRC, in particular, peritoneal metastases.
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Lou H, Cao X. Antibody variable region engineering for improving cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2022; 42:804-827. [PMID: 35822503 PMCID: PMC9456695 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The efficacy and specificity of conventional monoclonal antibody (mAb) drugs in the clinic require further improvement. Currently, the development and application of novel antibody formats for improving cancer immunotherapy have attracted much attention. Variable region-retaining antibody fragments, such as antigen-binding fragment (Fab), single-chain variable fragment (scFv), bispecific antibody, and bi/trispecific cell engagers, are engineered with humanization, multivalent antibody construction, affinity optimization and antibody masking for targeting tumor cells and killer cells to improve antibody-based therapy potency, efficacy and specificity. In this review, we summarize the application of antibody variable region engineering and discuss the future direction of antibody engineering for improving cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hantao Lou
- Ludwig Institute of Cancer ResearchUniversity of OxfordOxfordOX3 7DRUK
- Chinese Academy for Medical Sciences Oxford InstituteNuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOxfordOX3 7FZUK
| | - Xuetao Cao
- Chinese Academy for Medical Sciences Oxford InstituteNuffield Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOxfordOX3 7FZUK
- Department of ImmunologyCentre for Immunotherapy, Institute of Basic Medical SciencesChinese Academy of Medical SciencesBeijing100005P. R. China
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Wu Y, Li Q, Kong Y, Wang Z, Lei C, Li J, Ding L, Wang C, Cheng Y, Wei Y, Song Y, Yang Z, Tu C, Ding Y, Ying T. A highly stable human single-domain antibody-drug conjugate exhibits superior penetration and treatment of solid tumors. Mol Ther 2022; 30:2785-2799. [PMID: 35462042 PMCID: PMC9372316 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The inefficient tumor penetration of therapeutic antibodies has hampered their effective use in treating solid tumors. Here, we report the identification of a fully human single-domain antibody (UdAb), designated as n501, targeting the oncofetal antigen 5T4. The high-resolution crystal structure indicates that n501 adopts a compact structure very similar to that of camelid nanobodies, and binds tightly to all eight leucine-rich repeats of 5T4. Furthermore, the UdAb n501 exhibits exceptionally high stability, with no apparent activity changes over 4 weeks of storage at various temperatures. Importantly, the UdAb-based antibody-drug conjugate (n501-SN38) showed much deeper tumor penetration, significantly higher tumor uptake, and faster accumulation at tumor sites than conventional IgG1-based antibody-drug conjugate (m603-SN38), resulting in improved tumor inhibition. These results highlight the potential of UdAb-based antibody-drug conjugates as a potential class of antitumor therapeutics with characteristics of high stability and strong tumor penetration for the effective treatment of solid tumors.
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Molecular recognition of structurally disordered Pro/Ala-rich sequences (PAS) by antibodies involves an Ala residue at the hot spot of the epitope. J Mol Biol 2021; 433:167113. [PMID: 34161780 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Pro/Ala-rich sequences (PAS) are polypeptides that were developed as a biological alternative to poly-ethylene glycol (PEG) to generate biopharmaceuticals with extended plasma half-life. Like PEG, PAS polypeptides are conformationally disordered and show high solubility in water. Devoid of any charged or prominent hydrophobic side chains, these biosynthetic polymers represent an extreme case of intrinsically disordered proteins. Despite lack of immunogenicity of PAS tags in numerous animal studies we now succeeded in generating monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) against three different PAS versions. To this end, mice were immunized with a PAS#1, P/A#1 or APSA 40mer peptide conjugated to keyhole limpet hemocyanin as highly immunogenic carrier protein. In each case, one MAb with high binding activity and specificity towards a particular PAS motif was obtained. The apparent affinity was strongly dependent on the avidity effect and most pronounced for the bivalent MAb when interacting with a long PAS repeat. X-ray structural analysis of four representative anti-PAS Fab fragments in complex with their cognate PAS epitope peptides revealed interactions dominated by hydrogen bond networks involving the peptide backbone as well as multiple Van der Waals contacts arising from intimate shape complementarity. Surprisingly, Ala, the L-amino acid with the smallest side chain, emerged as a crucial feature for epitope recognition, contributing specific contacts at the center of the paratope in several anti-PAS complexes. Apart from these insights into how antibodies can recognize feature-less peptides without secondary structure, the MAbs characterized in this study offer valuable reagents for the preclinical and clinical development of PASylated biologics.
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Hutchings CJ. A review of antibody-based therapeutics targeting G protein-coupled receptors: an update. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2020; 20:925-935. [PMID: 32264722 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2020.1745770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play key roles in many biological functions and are linked to many diseases across all therapeutic areas. As such, GPCRs represent a significant opportunity for antibody-based therapeutics. AREAS COVERED The structure of the major GPCR families is summarized in the context of choice of antigen source employed in the drug discovery process and receptor biology considerations which may impact on targeting strategies. An overview of the therapeutic GPCR-antibody target landscape and the diversity of current therapeutic programs is provided along with summary case studies for marketed antibody drugs or those in advanced clinical studies. Antibodies in early clinical studies and the emergence of next-generation modalities are also highlighted. EXPERT OPINION The GPCR-antibody pipeline has progressed significantly with a number of technical developments enabling the successful resolution of some of the challenges previously encountered and this has contributed to the growing interest in antibody-based therapeutics addressing this target class.
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Powers NE, Swartzwelter B, Marchetti C, de Graaf DM, Lerchner A, Schlapschy M, Datar R, Binder U, Edwards CK, Skerra A, Dinarello CA. PASylation of IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) retains IL-1 blockade and extends its duration in mouse urate crystal-induced peritonitis. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:868-882. [PMID: 31819009 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.010340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a key mediator of inflammation and immunity. Naturally-occurring IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) binds and blocks the IL-1 receptor-1 (IL-1R1), preventing signaling. Anakinra, a recombinant form of IL-1Ra, is used to treat a spectrum of inflammatory diseases. However, anakinra is rapidly cleared from the body and requires daily administration. To create a longer-lasting alternative, PASylated IL-1Ra (PAS-IL-1Ra) has been generated by in-frame fusion of a long, defined-length, N-terminal Pro/Ala/Ser (PAS) random-coil polypeptide with IL-1Ra. Here, we compared the efficacy of two PAS-IL-1Ra molecules, PAS600-IL-1Ra and PAS800-IL-1Ra (carrying 600 and 800 PAS residues, respectively), with that of anakinra in mice. PAS600-IL-1Ra displayed markedly extended blood plasma levels 3 days post-administration, whereas anakinra was undetectable after 24 h. We also studied PAS600-IL-1Ra and PAS800-IL-1Ra for efficacy in monosodium urate (MSU) crystal-induced peritonitis. 5 days post-administration, PAS800-IL-1Ra significantly reduced leukocyte influx and inflammatory markers in MSU-induced peritonitis, whereas equimolar anakinra administered 24 h before MSU challenge was ineffective. The 6-h pretreatment with equimolar anakinra or PAS800-IL-1Ra before MSU challenge similarly reduced inflammatory markers. In cultured A549 lung carcinoma cells, anakinra, PAS600-IL-1Ra, and PAS800-IL-Ra reduced IL-1α-induced IL-6 and IL-8 levels with comparable potency. In human peripheral blood mononuclear cells, these molecules suppressed Candida albicans-induced production of the cancer-promoting cytokine IL-22. Surface plasmon resonance analyses revealed significant binding between PAS-IL-1Ra and IL-1R1, although with a slightly lower affinity than anakinra. These results validate PAS-IL-1Ra as an active IL-1 antagonist with marked in vivo potency and a significantly extended half-life compared with anakinra.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas E Powers
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | | | - Carlo Marchetti
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado 80045
| | - Dennis M de Graaf
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado 80045.,Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Martin Schlapschy
- Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie, Technische Universität München, Emil-Erlenmeyer-Forum 5, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Rajiv Datar
- DNX Biopharmaceuticals, Inc., San Diego, California 92121
| | - Uli Binder
- XL-protein GmbH, Lise-Meitner-Strasse 30, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Carl K Edwards
- DNX Biopharmaceuticals, Inc., San Diego, California 92121
| | - Arne Skerra
- Lehrstuhl für Biologische Chemie, Technische Universität München, Emil-Erlenmeyer-Forum 5, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Charles A Dinarello
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado 80045.,Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Powers NE, Swartzwelter B, Marchetti C, de Graaf DM, Lerchner A, Schlapschy M, Datar R, Binder U, Edwards CK, Skerra A, Dinarello CA. PASylation of IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) retains IL-1 blockade and extends its duration in mouse urate crystal-induced peritonitis. J Biol Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9258(17)49941-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
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Intraperitoneal Route of Drug Administration: Should it Be Used in Experimental Animal Studies? Pharm Res 2019; 37:12. [PMID: 31873819 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-019-2745-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 222] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Intraperitoneal (IP) route of drug administration in laboratory animals is a common practice in many in vivo studies of disease models. While this route is an easy to master, quick, suitable for chronic treatments and with low impact of stress on laboratory rodents, there is a common concern that it may not be an acceptable route for drug administration in experimental studies. The latter is likely due to sparsity of information regarding pharmacokinetics of pharmacological agents and the mechanisms through which agents get systemic exposure after IP administration. In this review, we summarize the main mechanisms involved in bioavailability of IP administered drugs and provide examples of pharmacokinetic profiles for small and large molecules in comparison to other routes of administration. We conclude with a notion that IP administration of drugs in experimental studies involving rodents is a justifiable route for pharmacological and proof-of-concept studies where the goal is to evaluate the effect(s) of target engagement rather than properties of a drug formulation and/or its pharmacokinetics for clinical translation.
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