Enhanced binding at fever temperatures of HER2 in complex with trastuzumab and pertuzumab

Aim: Fever follows the administration of trastuzumab and pertuzumab used in HER2-relevant immunotherapy, but is often eliminated in clinical practice. This work explores the role of temperature (37-39°C) in the formation of immune complexes between HER2 with either trastuzumab or pertuzumab or with both antibodies. Materials & methods: Using molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations, the binding between HER2 and these immunotherapeutic monoclonal antibodies was investigated at different temperatures. Results: Trastuzumab and pertuzumab present the highest binding free energy to HER2 at febrile temperatures (39°C), or when HER2 is in complex with both antibodies. Conclusion: Performing molecular dynamics simulations under fever temperatures may be important for delineating their role in enhancing the binding affinity of mature antibodies used in immunotherapy.