Humanized Cell Membrane Molecules

Model for Biologics Evaluation

The exponential development of monoclonal antibody and biologics has paved the way for innovative therapies. In vivo evaluation of monoclonal antibodies requires new types of animal models. Because of their high specificity, monoclonal antibodies cannot be properly evaluated on mouse proteins. Evaluation can only occur in a humanized animal model where the antibody will bind to the human antigen. Most of the time, it is required that after humanization the transduction pathway stays functional, which means that the human antigen be able to functionally substitute for the mouse homolog. Availability of a humanized model has become a compulsory step for the evaluation of monoclonal antibodies and biologics. Relying on its experience in humanized models (more than 250 models successfully created), genOway is recognized for its excellence in the development of humanized models for biologics testing.

Case study: Humanization of CTLA-4 (Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen) for in vivo testing of monoclonal antibodies specificity and efficacy.

CTLA-4, a high affinity receptor for CD80 and CD86, can inhibit T-cell activation. Blocking of CTLA-4 has been shown to promote anti-tumor immunity.

Adapted from Lute et al. Blood 2005. Human CTLA-4 knock-in mice unravel the quantitative link between tumor immunity and autoimmunity induced by anti–CTLA-4 antibodies.