Review: Membrane protein nanodiscs for antibody discovery

Membrane proteins play pivotal roles in cellular signaling, transport, and immune responses. Dysregulation of these proteins frequently underlies diverse disease states, making them appealing targets for drug development, including therapeutic antibodies. Traditionally, the extraction and stabilization of membrane proteins involve detergents, which may compromise the protein's native conformation, thus impeding antibody discovery. The shift toward detergent-free formulations using membrane protein nanodiscs formed by membrane scaffold proteins (MSPs), copolymers, saposins, or peptides has opened new avenues in membrane protein research and antibody discovery. They allow for the stabilization of membrane proteins in a more native-like environment, preserving structural integrity and function. This review discusses various membrane protein nanodiscs, and their applications in antibody discovery, alongside current advancements and challenges.