Bispecific & Multispecific Antibodies

We design and engineer a multitude of recombinant antibodies for immunotherapy, including bispecific and multispecific antibodies (BsAbs & MsAbs).

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The development of bispecific and multispecific antibodies, either by multi-arm assembly or addition of other proteins to generate bi-functional molecules, allows a greater therapeutic space to be explored when compared to traditional monospecific mAbs.

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The development of such constructs can be challenging however, at Abzena we have a strong track record of designing and developing such bispecific antibodies, multispecific antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs).

Abzena understand that there is not always a ‘one size fits all’ approach. We have proven ‘Design and Production’ strategies to rapidly screen key features, such as avidity, spacing, stoichiometry and arm formatting to help you develop your new antibody quickly.

Abzena have the expertise to accelerate your bispecific or multispecific into new areas and applications.

Bispecific Design

Bispecific antibodies combine multiple specificities into a single construct and many different ‘flavors’ of bispecifics have been developed, each with their own advantages and challenges, foremost amongst which is freedom to operate.

Whilst it may be that you already have a preferred bispecific design, if an optimal format has not yet been established, it may be desirable to take advantage of our experience by investigating a limited panel of simple ‘go to’ IP-free formats to explore the space.

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Bispecific Expression & Purification

Amongst the many challenges associated with bispecifics, one of the most common is avoiding chain mis-pairing. To overcome this, a frequently used approach to improve this is the use of a knob-into-hole (KiH) strategy. This method involves the co-expression of two antibody heavy chains with specific mutations that generate a “knob” on one and a ‘hole’ on the other, ensuring that the heterodimer becomes the primary product. We are highly experienced in optimizing the expression and purification of bispecific antibodies and their various formats including knob-into-hole as well as those using other heterodimerization technologies.

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Bispecific Characterization

Given the complexity of bispecifics, appropriate characterization and analysis is key. Traditional analytical techniques such as SDS-PAGE and SEC may not be sufficient and so techniques such as intact mass spectrometry and SEC-MALS need to be relied upon to assess correct bispecific formation. Additional characterization such as thermal stability profiling can provide further valuable information as to the developability potential of your molecules. Our experienced team will take the time to understand your bispecific and apply the most appropriate analytics to your molecule.

Characterization is just part of the story though. Once made, the molecules need to be tested in an appropriate assay. By working with our bioassay team, an appropriate assay can be designed to understand the functionality of the molecule and allow lead candidate selection.

Analytics & Bioassays

Experience Across Antibody Formats

Abzena can work with you to develop the right bispecific or multispecific antibody for your application.

Whether you are at an early stage or further down the developmental path, we offer services that help to get you to the next destination.

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