Antibodies are indispensable in research, diagnostics, and as therapeutics. Despite significant advances in antibody discovery and engineering technologies, challenges remain, particularly in the targeting of predetermined epitopes and the simultaneous optimisation of multiple biophysical traits. Traditional screening methods can be labor-intensive and are ineffective at navigating the complex trade-offs between properties such as affinity, specificity, stability, and solubility. It is increasingly possible to complement well-established in vivo (first generation) and in vitro (second generation) methods of antibody discovery with in silico (third generation) approaches, which offer speed, cost-effectiveness, and resource efficiency. In this presentation, I will explore emerging computational methods of antibody design, which enable precise targeting of specific epitopes, accurate prediction of nativeness, nanobody humanisation, and the optimisation of developability potential through the simultaneous enhancement of multiple biophysical properties. These approaches can streamline antibody development, enabling to address new questions and paving the way for rapid advancements in therapeutic and diagnostic applications.
27 Giugno, 2025