Bioconjugate & ADC Development - Abzena

Radionuclide Drug Conjugates (RDCs) Development

We leverage advanced chemistry & complex biologics expertise to design, develop, and manufacture Radioconjugates including Antibody-Chelate Conjugates (ACCs) that can be used to load radioactive elements for use as cancer therapies or in imaging studies such as PET scanning.

Accelerate your RDC development with Abzena.

With over 24 years of experience in complex biologics and bioconjugation, we apply our proven expertise to de-risk your radioconjugate program from early feasibility studies through to clinical manufacturing of the antibody-chelator conjugate.

As the industry increasingly focuses on targeted radiotherapies, our integrated approach ensures that your program is built on a robust foundation while being optimized for safety, scalability, and regulatory compliance.

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What are RDCs

Bioconjugate Development

Radionuclide Drug Conjugates (RDCs) combine three key elements:

  • A potent radioactive payload: The radioactive element is ‘loaded’ onto the chelator (e.g. DOTA, DPTA) of the conjugate.
  • A specific targeting moiety: Typically, an antibody, antibody fragment or peptide.
  • A specialized chemical linker: The chelator is covalently bound to the antibody via a stable chemical linker. This configuration enables localized radiotherapy while minimizing systemic exposure, expanding the targeted therapeutic potential seen in traditional ADCs to the realm of radiopharmaceuticals.
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Integrated Radioconjugate Development Support

Our comprehensive service offering covers every stage of Antibody chelator conjugate development and manufacture:

  • Early Feasibility & Optimization: We rigorously evaluate targeting agents, and linker chemistries to identify the optimal design for your conjugate. This early de-risking phase ensures that the scientific and technical foundations of your program are solid.
  • Conjugation & Process Development: In the case study below, we demonstrate how Abzena developed a Chelator conjugate. Protein engineering was used to provide an antibody with a half-life tuned to that of the radioactive element that was to be chelated. The chelator molecule was DOTA and it was conjugated to the antibody using stocastic Lysine conjugation with an average DAR 4. The recovery was high and SEC chromatography showed , 2% high molecular weight species present indicating minimal aggregation.
RDC Conjugation & Process Development Case Study Graphic
  • Analytical & Bioassay Development: Utilizing state-of-the-art analytical techniques, we verify the identity, purity, potency, and stability of your chelator conjugate. Our thorough suite of bioassays provide the data needed to support regulatory submissions, ensuring that each batch meets rigorous criteria.
  • cGMP Manufacturing & Scale-Up: From technology transfer to clinical and commercial scale production, our global manufacturing capabilities provide seamless scale-up. We ensure consistency, quality, and safety at every step, enabling a smooth transition from lab-scale research to clinical application and beyond. Our dedicated facility in Bristol, PA, is equipped with specialized engineering controls to handle highly potent and cytotoxic materials. These controls feature independent air-handling systems, HEPA-filtered ventilation, and isolator glove boxes, ensuring containment and operator safety during manufacturing.
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What sets Abzena apart?

Our approach is defined by four key differentiators:

  • Genuine Scientific & Technical Experts: Our multidisciplinary teams bring deep expertise in radiochemistry, complex biologics, and bioconjugation—ensuring you have access to leading scientific insights and technical solutions.
  • Proactive Solutions for Streamlining Development: We identify and mitigate potential challenges early in the development process, shortening timelines and reducing risk.
  • Diverse and Interconnected Teams: With a collaborative global network spanning discovery, process development, and manufacturing, we provide an integrated, cohesive service model that accelerates program progress.
  • End-to-End Support Under One Organization: From initial feasibility to cGMP production, our unified approach minimizes vendor handoffs and streamlines the pathway from concept to clinic.

Related Bioconjugation Services

ADC Development

Leverage our extensive experience in antibody-drug conjugates to enhance targeted therapies.

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Cell Line Development

Custom cell line solutions tailored for high-quality biologic production.

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Process Development

Advanced process optimization and analytical testing to ensure robust product quality.

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What are your drug development goals? - Abzena

Ready to advance your RDC program?

Contact us to learn how Abzena’s integrated solutions and deep technical expertise can transform your targeted radioconjugate development.

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