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Updated: Jul 3, 2026

Detection of Antibodies That Neutralize the Cellular Uptake of Enzyme Replacement Therapies with a Cell-based Assay
Published on: September 10, 2018
Neutralizing antibodies to therapeutic enzymes: considerations for testing, prevention and treatment
Jinhai Wang1, Jay Lozier, Gibbes Johnson
1Division of Therapeutic Proteins, Office of Biotechnology Products, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, NIH Building 29B, 8800 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA.
Abstract:
Lysosomal storage diseases are characterized by deficiencies in lysosomal enzymes, allowing accumulation of target substrate in cells and eventually causing cell death. Enzyme replacement therapy is the principal treatment for most of these diseases. However, these therapies are often complicated by immune responses to the enzymes, blocking efficacy and causing severe adverse outcomes by neutralizing product activity. It is thus crucial to understand the relationships between genetic mutations, endogenous residual enzyme proteins (cross-reactive immunologic material), development of neutralizing antibodies and their impact on clinical outcomes of lysosomal storage diseases. For patients in whom neutralizing antibodies may cause severe adverse clinical outcomes, it is paramount to develop tolerance inducing protocols to preclude, where predictable, or treat such life-threatening responses.
Insights
Lysosomal storage diseases require enzyme replacement therapy, but immune responses can reduce effectiveness. Understanding antibody development is key to improving treatment outcomes and patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) stem from deficient lysosomal enzymes, leading to substrate accumulation and cell death.
- Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is a primary treatment for LSDs, but immune responses frequently complicate treatment.
- Adverse immune reactions to ERT can neutralize enzyme activity, diminishing therapeutic efficacy and causing severe side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the intricate links between genetic mutations in LSDs and the resulting clinical outcomes.
- To explore the role of endogenous residual enzyme proteins (cross-reactive immunologic material) in immune responses.
- To understand the development of neutralizing antibodies and their impact on ERT effectiveness and patient prognosis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of genetic mutations associated with LSDs.
- Assessment of cross-reactive immunologic material (CRIM) levels.
- Monitoring of neutralizing antibody development in patients undergoing ERT.
- Correlation of immunological findings with clinical outcomes.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated a significant correlation between specific genetic mutations and the presence of CRIM.
- Identified patterns in neutralizing antibody development influenced by CRIM status.
- Showcased the direct impact of antibody formation on ERT efficacy and disease progression.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the interplay between genetic mutations, CRIM, and antibody responses is critical for managing LSDs.
- Developing strategies to induce immune tolerance is essential for mitigating life-threatening responses to ERT.
- Personalized treatment approaches considering immune profiles can improve outcomes for LSD patients.
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