Optimizing asymmetric antibody purification: a semi-automated process and its digital integration

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Protein Engineering
• Drug Discovery

Background:

• Advancements in immunization and display technologies enable generation of novel binders against cell surface targets.
• Increasing complexity of biologic therapeutics, including asymmetric formats like bispecific antibodies, presents challenges in molecule supply for drug discovery.
• Efficient purification platforms are critical for delivering high-quality proteins rapidly and in sufficient yields for preclinical research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a semi-automated and digitalized purification platform for accelerating and optimizing the supply of asymmetric antibodies.
• To demonstrate the platform's capability in handling complex purifications, including cation exchange chromatography.
• To highlight the benefits of automation and digitalization in enhancing throughput, data capture, and decision-making.

Main Methods:

• Development and implementation of a semi-automated and digitalized purification platform.
• Case study involving purification of a bispecific antibody.
• Integration of cation exchange chromatography within the purification workflow.
• Digitalization of process steps for enhanced data management.

Main Results:

• Achieved maximal throughput of 36 asymmetric antibodies per week.
• Demonstrated consistent delivery of high-quality proteins.
• Showcased increased throughput for complex purifications through automation and digitalization.
• Facilitated enhanced data capture and accessibility, aiding decision-making.

Conclusions:

• The described platform significantly accelerates and optimizes the supply of complex antibody formats for preclinical drug discovery.
• Automation and digitalization are key to improving efficiency and data management in protein purification.
• This approach represents a substantial advancement in meeting the demands for novel therapeutic molecules.