Katrine Qvortrup
A general strategy for brain-specific activation of antibodies to limit untargeted side-effects
Developing therapeutics for brain disorders remains a significant challenge due to the inherent complexity of the brain and its natural protective barriers, which restrict drug access to the brain. This is particularly problematic for large therapeutic molecules like monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). While mAbs offer high therapeutic potential, the limited transport into the brain requires the administration of high doses to achieve therapeutic efficacy, which increases the risk of side effects.
This project will test an innovative solution via bivalent ligands that temporarily block mAbs binding sites. These ligands are designed to degrade under brain-specific conditions, ensuring that the antibodies are activated only in the brain. This method could revolutionize the treatment of brain diseases by enhancing therapy effectiveness and reducing side effects. The initial focus is on three promising mAbs, with the potential to expand it to others.
