A translational perspective: Biacore™ systems in discovery and early-stage development of biotherapeutic antibodies

Translational science has launched a new era of antibody therapeutics, driving demand for novel antibody formats designed to improve efficacy of therapies and reach new targets. The trend towards increasingly complex drug targets drives the need for increased sensitivity during development, screening, and lead optimization. Biacore™ surface plasmon resonance (SPR) systems are extensively used in biotherapeutic antibody discovery and development.

Here, we discuss the utility of Biacore systems from selection of first candidates to clinical lead. We show that a combination of Biacore SPR systems, software, sensor chips, and kits support the setup of screening and characterization assays and reduce the difficulties that come with assay development. During screening, antibody capture followed by an antigen injection permits the selection of monophasic and stable binders with preferred kinetics and stoichiometry.

Standardized Biacore epitope binning procedures ensure reliable determination of epitope specificity, while the effect of antibody engineering efforts can be investigated by analysis of antibody binding to antigen and Fcγ-receptors. Biacore SPR systems also address key developability aspects, including ensuring critical binding properties remain unchanged in forced degradation studies. While using Biacore SPR systems, antibody concentration and kinetics can be monitored in the presence of nonbinding unfolded fractions, host cell proteins, and other impurities.

For translational scientists seeking to progress their drug discovery from benchtop to clinical testing and beyond, Biacore SPR systems can provide the reliability, sensitivity, and automation to reduce risk of failure and assist with a smooth journey to clinic.

White Paper from