ANTIBODIES TO PROGRAMMED CELL DEATH PROTEIN 1 THAT ARE PD-1 AGONISTS

Smart overview of the Invention

Antibodies that specifically bind to the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) are being explored for their potential as PD-1 agonists. Unlike traditional anti-PD-1 therapies that block the PD-1/PD-L1 interaction, these antibodies are designed to activate PD-1 directly. This activation can stimulate immune responses, enhancing the proliferation and activity of immune cells, which is crucial in cancer treatment.

Mechanism of Action

The disclosed antibodies and their fragments target specific epitopes on PD-1, avoiding interference with PD-L1 binding. By binding to PD-1, these antibodies can trigger signaling pathways that promote cytokine production and immune cell activation, particularly in T cells, including CD8+ T cells. This mechanism may provide an alternative approach to cancer immunotherapy, especially for patients who do not respond to existing therapies.

Potential Applications

These antibodies have significant therapeutic implications for cancer treatment. The ability to enhance immune responses through direct PD-1 activation offers a novel strategy that could complement existing therapies or serve as an alternative for patients with limited options. Additionally, methods for treating infections are also considered, broadening the potential applications of these antibodies beyond oncology.

Composition and Structure

The antibodies consist of variable regions that include specific complementarity-determining regions (CDRs). These regions are crucial for the binding specificity of the antibodies to PD-1. The application outlines various configurations of CDRs that can be utilized to create effective PD-1 agonists, ensuring a diverse range of antibody candidates for further development.

Sequence Listing Reference

A Sequence Listing in XML format is included, detailing the specific sequences related to the antibodies discussed. This listing serves as a reference for researchers and developers working with these antibodies, facilitating further exploration and potential clinical applications.