High-Affinity Single-Domain Antibodies for Analyzing Human Apo- and Holo-Transferrin

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Immunology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Transferrin plays a crucial role in iron transport.
• Altered transferrin iron saturation (apo- vs. holo-transferrin) is linked to various pathological conditions, including cancer.
• Developing sensitive diagnostic tools for these alterations is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate and characterize novel nanobodies targeting human transferrin.
• To explore the potential of these nanobodies in diagnostic applications.
• To investigate the utility of simultaneous detection of apo- and holo-transferrin for disease risk assessment.

Main Methods:

• Generation of monoclonal single-domain recombinant antibodies (nanobodies) using a highly efficient technology.
• Characterization of two distinct nanobody variants.
• Development of immunosorbents utilizing the generated nanobodies.

Main Results:

• A panel of nanobodies recognizing human apo- and holo-transferrin was successfully obtained.
• Two nanobody variants were analyzed for their properties.
• Simultaneous use of nanobody-based immunosorbents demonstrated the ability to detect changes in apo- and holo-transferrin relative abundance.

Conclusions:

• The developed nanobodies offer a promising tool for detecting alterations in transferrin iron status.
• These nanobodies have unique potential for diagnostic studies.
• Monitoring apo- and holo-transferrin levels may serve as an indicator for pathological processes, such as malignant neoplasms.