Shark New Antigen Receptor (IgNAR): Structure, Characteristics and Potential Biomedical Applications

Shark is a cartilaginous fish that produces new antigen receptor (IgNAR) antibodies. This antibody is identified with a similar human heavy chain but dissimilar sequences. The variable domain (VNAR) of IgNAR is stable and small in size, these features are desirable for drug discovery. Previous study results revealed the effectiveness of VNAR as a single molecule or a combination molecule to treat diseases both in vivo and in vitro with promising clinical applications. We showed the first evidence of IgNAR alternative splicing from spotted bamboo shark (Chiloscyllium plagiosum), broadening our understanding of the IgNARs characteristics. In this review, we summarize the discoveries on IgNAR with a focus on its advantages for therapeutic development based on its peculiar biochemistry and molecular structure. Proper applications of IgNAR will provide a novel avenue to understand its special presence in cartilaginous fishes as well as designing a number of drugs for undefeated diseases.