Development of Cell-Based Functional Assays to Accelerate Commercialization and Therapeutic Application of Recombinant Antibodies

Antibodies are the fastest growing segment of the pharmaceutical market, and with modern engineering technologies antibodies can be programmed to target devastating diseases. Within the immune system, antibodies fight invading bacteria and viruses. High-quality synthetic antibodies directed to disease-related targets have immense therapeutic potential. Development of cell-based assays to enable rapid identification of functionally active antibodies is a critical step in the commercialization process. The proposed research project will involve screening of binders against disease-associated targets; antibodies showing clinical relevancy will be considered for entry into the clinical trial pipeline. The newly formed Centre for the Commercialization of Antibodies and Biologics (CCAB) will bridge the research and discovery occurring at the Donnelly Centre with industry partners to enable accelerated delivery of new therapies to fight diseases such as cancer, arthritis, and Crohn’s disease. CCAB will facilitate commercialization of antibodies by leveraging a world-class technology platform and experienced product development professionals.

Faculty Supervisor:

Jason Moffat

Student:

Carly Griffin

Partner:

Centre for the Commercialization of Antibodies and Biologics

Discipline:

Biochemistry / Molecular biology

Sector:

Pharmaceuticals

University:

University of Toronto