The Evolving Applications of Bispecific Antibodies: Reaping the Harvest of Early Sowing and Planting New Seeds.

Abstract

After decades of gradual progress from conceptualization to early clinical trials (1960-2000), the therapeutic potential of bispecific antibodies (bisp Abs) is now being fully realized. Insights gained from both successful and unsuccessful trials are helping to identify which mechanisms of action, antibody formats, and targets prove most effective, and which may benefit from further refinement. While T-cell engagers remain the most commonly used class of bisp Abs, current efforts aim to increase their effectiveness by co-engaging costimulatory molecules, reducing escape mechanisms, and countering immunosuppression. Strategies to minimize cytokine release syndrome (CRS) are also actively under development. In addition, novel antibody formats that are selectively activated within tumors are an exciting area of research, as is the precise targeting of specific T-cell subsets. Beyond T cells, the recruitment of macrophages and dendritic cells is attracting increasing interest, with researchers exploring various macrophage receptors to promote phagocytosis or to carry out specialized functions, such as the immunologically silent clearance of amyloid-beta plaques in the brain. While bisp Abs targeting B cells are relatively limited, they are primarily aimed at inhibiting B-cell activity in autoimmune diseases. Another evolving application involves the forced interaction between proteins. Beyond the successful development of Hemlibra for hemophilia, bispecific antibodies that mimic cytokine activity are being explored. Additionally, the recruitment of cell surface ubiquitin ligases and other enzymes represents a novel and promising therapeutic strategy. In regard to antibody formats, some applications such as the combination of T-cell engagers with costimulatory molecules are driving the development of trispecific antibodies, at least in preclinical settings. However, the increasing structural complexity of multispecific antibodies often leads to more challenging development paths, and the number of multispecific antibodies in clinical trials remains low. The clinical success of certain applications and well-established production methods position this therapeutic class to expand its benefits into other therapeutic areas.