High-throughput selection of monoclonal antibodies against GPCRs using a microfluidic single cell screening platform – Year two

Antibodies are biomolecules naturally produced by immune cells, called antibody-secreting cells, to protect against
infection and diseases. Each antibody-secreting cell makes a unique type of antibody that binds specifically to a target molecule. A major challenge in developing antibody therapeutics is selecting the most effective antibodies from the billions produced within any given host.
Our aim is to build on an established technology platform that uses analysis of very small volumes (1/10^9 liters) in
miniaturized devices (microfluidics) to select antibodies against challenging membrane receptor targets directly from
single cells. This project will advance new and innovative solutions to antibody drug discovery such as: finding
antibodies against difficult drug targets; improved capabilities in the selection of antibodies; and high-value
applications in vaccine development and improved approaches to immunotherapy. The work done in this project will
be directly transferable to AbCellera and bring important new capabilities to their technology platform.

Faculty Supervisor:

T. Michael UnderHill

Student:

Partner:

AbCellera

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: