Engineered antibodies are essentially modified versions of natural antibodies, designed to have improved properties or functions for specific applications, particularly in therapeutics and diagnostics.
Based on the provided information, engineered antibody can be referred to the modified molecular obtained by processing recombinant antibody and reassembled antibody gene via recombinant DNA and protein engineering technology, transfecting an appropriate receptor cell, expressing the antibody.
This definition highlights several key steps involved in their creation:
The Engineering Process
The process of engineering antibodies leverages advanced molecular biology techniques to alter their genetic code and resulting protein structure. Here's a breakdown of the core steps:
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Recombinant DNA & Protein Engineering Technologies: This is the foundation of antibody engineering. Scientists use techniques to manipulate the DNA sequence that codes for the antibody protein. This might involve:
- Modifying existing antibody genes: Introducing specific changes to the DNA sequence to alter particular amino acids in the antibody protein.
- Reassembling antibody genes: Combining gene segments from different antibodies or species (like creating humanized antibodies from mouse antibodies) to create novel sequences.
- Applying protein engineering principles to design modifications that improve characteristics such as binding affinity, stability, or reduced immunogenicity.
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Processing Recombinant Antibody and Reassembled Antibody Gene: This refers to the laboratory steps involved in preparing the DNA constructs and the resulting antibody proteins for use. It includes generating the specific gene sequences and ensuring they are ready for expression.
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Transfecting an Appropriate Receptor Cell: The modified or reassembled antibody gene (carried within a DNA vector) is introduced into suitable host cells. These "receptor cells" are typically mammalian cell lines commonly used in biotechnology for protein production. The process of introducing foreign DNA into cells is called transfection.
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Expressing the Antibody: Once inside the receptor cells, the introduced gene directs the cellular machinery to produce the engineered antibody protein. These cells act as tiny factories, synthesizing and often secreting large quantities of the desired engineered antibody.
Why Engineer Antibodies?
Antibodies are engineered for various reasons, including:
- Improved Binding Affinity: Making the antibody bind more strongly to its target.
- Reduced Immunogenicity: Modifying non-human antibodies (like mouse antibodies) to resemble human antibodies more closely, minimizing unwanted immune responses when used in humans.
- Enhanced Effector Functions: Modifying the antibody's ability to trigger immune responses like killing target cells.
- Increased Stability: Making the antibody last longer in circulation or storage.
- Creation of Novel Antibody Formats: Developing antibody fragments, bispecific antibodies (that bind to two different targets), or antibody-drug conjugates.
In essence, antibody engineering is a powerful approach that allows scientists to tailor antibody molecules with specific desired properties, opening doors for new diagnostic tools and therapeutic treatments.
