Genetic code expansion (GCE) technology extends the capabilities of the canonical 20-amino-acid system by enabling the site-specific incorporation of non-canonical amino acids (ncAAs) into proteins. We have established a proprietary GCEngine platform focused on discovering and optimizing orthogonal aaRS/tRNA pairs. Our ncAA-incorporated antibody therapeutic development service utilizes this platform to support the creation of next-generation biologics with designed properties, offering new potential strategies to address complex challenges in oncology, autoimmune disorders, and other disease areas.
Conventional antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and multispecific antibodies can face challenges related to heterogeneous conjugation and structural complexity. Through the site-specific integration of ncAAs, these therapeutics can be equipped with bioorthogonal "chemical handles". This precision enables better control over drug-to-antibody ratios (DAR), improved pharmacokinetic profiles, and the potential for improved safety, thereby contributing to the development of more defined and multifunctional therapeutic agents.
Fig.1 Azk-functionalized FTN2 Fab variants (Hanaee-Ahvaz, H., et al., 2023).
The site-specific integration of ncAAs supports the rational design of distinct therapeutic modalities. Our GCEngine platform specializes in the development of four primary classes:
The GCEngine platform provides tools for innovative antibody development, spanning from orthogonal aaRS/tRNA pairs identification and ncAA compatibility screening to in vitro and in vivo validation. Our dedicated ncAA-incorporated antibody therapeutic development service translates this platform capability into tailored solutions for partners. We offer comprehensive support, from initial construct design and genetic implementation of the orthogonal system, through stable cell line development, to purification, analytical characterization, and functional preclinical testing of the novel antibody therapy.
Recognizing the unique target biology and delivery challenges across different therapeutic areas, we provide fully customized development pathways. Our team works closely with partners to design ncAA-incorporated antibody solutions specific to different diseases.
Designing ADCs with site-specific conjugation for controlled DAR; using ncAAs for affinity modulation or radioisotope conjugation; enabling precise assembly of bispecific formats.
Incorporating ncAAs for site-directed half-life extension (e.g., PEGylation), immunogenicity profile tuning, or attachment of anti-inflammatory payloads.
Developing antibodies with site-specifically attached antiviral agents or optimizing Fc-mediated effector functions through precise ncAA-incorporation modifications, to enhance pathogen clearance.
Utilizing ncAAs as chemical handles to conjugate blood-brain barrier (BBB) shuttle modules (e.g., peptides, transferrin receptor binders) to antibody therapeutics for enhanced CNS delivery.
By integrating a cutting-edge, proprietary discovery platform with extensive preclinical development expertise, we deliver a unique solution to reduce development risk and accelerate timelines from concept to candidate. To explore how our GCEngine platform and ncAA-incorporated antibody therapeutic development services can advance your next-generation biologic pipeline, please contact us.
All our services are exclusively intended for preclinical research purposes. They are not intended for diagnostic, therapeutic, or patient management applications.
A specialized platform advancing genetic code expansion through orthogonal tRNA/aaRS technologies, enabling precise ncAA incorporation for biotherapeutic development, synthetic biology, and diagnostics.