We have developed and completed a proof-of-principle on a new transgenic mouse model for comprehensive characterization of the antibody repertoire made in response to ovalbumin injection using surface antibody capture and next-generation DNA sequencing technologies. A more commercially valuable proof is now sought using a novel screening method with an emerging drug target for hypercholesterolemia, known as PCSK9.
Therapeutic and diagnostic applications of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) offer a way to target treatments to specific proteins. However, monoclonal antibodies have traditionally been made using hybridoma technologies which only access a small fraction of the immune system. Abeome has developed a novel method of antibody discovery using next-generation DNA sequencing of the variable gene repertoire of antigen-specific antibody producing cells. Thus, the immediate goal for this Phase I project is to use Abeome's newly validated technology to isolate mAbs specifically neutralizing the PCSK9/LDLR interaction. Our long-term goals are to develop an immuno-therapeutic for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and to partner the technology with pharmaceutical/biotechnology companies.
