Bispecific antibodies: advancing precision oncology

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Biotechnology
• Oncology

Background:

• Bispecific antibodies (bsAbs) are engineered proteins targeting two distinct antigens.
• Their modular design allows for diverse functionalities, such as immune cell-tumor cell linkage or dual pathway blockade.
• Several bsAbs have significantly impacted hematological malignancies and some solid tumors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the engineering principles of bsAbs.
• To summarize current knowledge on bsAbs' mechanisms of action and resistance.
• To discuss clinical applications, challenges, and future prospects of bsAbs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of bsAb engineering principles.
• Analysis of existing data on bsAb mechanisms of action and resistance.
• Synthesis of clinical trial data and expert perspectives.

Main Results:

• bsAbs' efficacy is linked to their structure and dual targeting capabilities.
• Mechanisms of resistance to bsAbs are not fully understood.
• Management of bsAb-related toxicities requires further investigation.

Conclusions:

• bsAbs represent a promising class of therapeutics with transformative potential in oncology.
• Further research is needed to overcome resistance and manage toxicities.
• Continued innovation in bsAb engineering will expand their therapeutic applications.