Monitoring Glycation Levels on Bispecific Biologics using FabRICATOR®
Bispecific monoclonal antibodies (BsAbs) are multi-functioning and complex biologics with the ability to recognize two different epitopes for improved therapeutic properties. Characterizing protein modifications such as glycation on biologics is vital to ensure consistency in stability and function. The structural complexity of BsAbs requires robust analytical methods, where conventional top-down and bottom-up strategies may lack in sensitivity or even introduce further modifications. Middle-level analysis using site-specific proteases such as GingisKHAN®(Kgp) and FabRICATOR®(IdeS) is an intermediate strategy that enables complementary analysis of intact or reduced Fab and Fc fragments.
In a recent article by Gstöttner et al. (2019) from Leiden University together with Roche Pharma Technical Development, the authors analyzed a BsAb for protein modification levels, N- and C-terminal sequencing and modification localization using top-down, middle-level and bottom-up strategies. The BsAb was analyzed for changes in glycation levels over time using middle-up FT-ICR MS on Fc/2, LC and Fd’ fragments obtained by FabRICATOR digestion. The scientists also localized glycation hot spots on the heavy chain backbone of the FabRICATOR-digested BsAb using sequential in source decay (ISD) MALDI fragmentation.
Using FabRICATOR in a novel middle-up MS strategy, the scientists were able to analyze all antibody subunits in a single high-resolution mass spectrum. By implementing the method in a forced-glycation experiment, changes in glycation levels were successfully monitored over time. The authors were also able to localize several glycation hot spots by intact top-down and FabRICATOR-assisted middle-down analyses. The use of middle-level strategies in combination with conventional MS-based methods successfully provided complementary data for monitoring the level of glycation.
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