The project combines AAX Biotech’s Opti-mAb technology and antibody engineering expertise with Discovery Evolution’s digital antibody discovery platform, RedQueen. RedQueen uses digital directed evolution and computational biophysics to design antibodies against selected targets, with a focus on G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and other challenging membrane proteins. Opti-mAb is designed to improve the yield and stability of single-chain variable fragments (scFvs), which are building blocks in many multispecific antibodies.

Bispecific antibodies combine two binding specificities in one molecule, which makes it possible to attack cancer cells through complementary mechanisms. For AAX Biotech, the partnership is part of a strategy to broaden the use of Opti-mAb. For Discovery Evolution, it supports building a portfolio of its own therapeutic antibody assets. The collaboration is at the research and proof-of-concept stage, and the companies plan to evaluate further development and partnering opportunities as the work progresses.

“Identifying a promising antibody binder is an important starting point, but taking the discovery further requires the right antibody format with the right molecular properties,” says Daniel X. Johansson, CSO and co-founder of AAX Biotech.