Antibodies to CD3 and BCMA and bispecific binding proteins prepared therefrom

Abstract

To provide novel antibodies that bind to CD3 with high affinity and novel antibodies that bind to BCMA with high affinity.SOLUTION: High affinity antibodies that recognize CD3 and B cell maturation protein (BCMA) are disclosed. Binding sites derived from humanized anti-CD3 antibody and anti-BCMA antibody are incorporated in a Fabs-in-Tandem immunoglobulin format without significant loss of binding affinities, and the resultant bispecific multivalent binding protein can bind to both CD3 and BCMA simultaneously. Such antibodies, antigen binding portions thereof and bispecific FIT-Ig binding proteins are useful for cancer treatment.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to novel antibodies that recognize CD3, B Cell Maturation Antigen (BCMA), and bispecific BCMA / CD3 binding proteins, such as FIT-Ig and MAT-Fab binding proteins, generated using these antibodies. The antibodies and bispecific binding proteins are useful in the treatment of immune diseases and hematological cancers. [Background technology]

[0002] Cluster of Differentiation 3 (CD3) The T cell receptor (TCR) binds to antigens (Ags) presented by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and plays a key role in T cell function. However, the TCR does not itself perform intracellular signaling. Instead, the TCR non-covalently associates with the cluster of differentiation 3 (CD3) complex and triggers intracellular signaling through the immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motifs (ITAMs) of CD3. The CD3 T cell coreceptor helps to activate both cytotoxic T cells (CD8+ naive T cells) and T helper cells (CD4+ naive T cells). It consists of a protein complex and is composed of four different chains. In mammals, this complex includes the CD3γ chain, the CD3δ chain, and two CD3ε chains. These chains associate with the T cell receptor (TCR) and the CD3δ chain (zeta chain) to generate an activation signal in T lymphocytes. Together, the TCR, ζ chain, and the CD3γ, δ, and ε chains constitute the TCR complex, and the CD3 four-chain complex forms CD3εγ, CD3εδ, and ζζ dimers with a 1:1:1 stoichiometry.

[0003] CD3 is initially expressed in the cytoplasm of prothymocytes, the stem cells from which T cells arise in the thymus. Prothymocytes differentiate into conventional thymocytes and then into medullary thymocytes, and it is at this latter stage that the CD3 antigen begins to translocate to the plasma membrane. The antigen is found associated with the membrane of all mature T cells and is virtually absent on other cell types, but appears to be present in small amounts on Purkinje cells.

[0004] This high specificity, coupled with the presence of CD3 at all stages of T cell development, makes it a useful immunohistochemical marker of T cells in tissue sections. The antigen remains present in almost all T cell lymphomas and leukemias, and can therefore be used to distinguish them from superficially similar B cell and myeloid neoplasms. Several antibodies against the CD3 ε chain have been shown to activate the TCR-CD3 complex, presumably by clustering the CD3 complex on T cells. In addition, bispecific antibodies targeting both CD3 and tumor-specific antigens are being investigated for redirecting tumor eradication by T cells. Because CD3 is required for T cell activation, drugs (often monoclonal antibodies) that target CD3 are being explored as immunosuppressive therapies (e.g., otelixizumab) for type 1 diabetes and other autoimmune diseases.

[0005] B cell maturation antigen (BCMA) B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA, TNFRSF17, CD269) is a member of the TNF receptor superfamily. BCMA expression is restricted to the B-cell lineage, expressed primarily in plasma cells and plasmablasts, and absent from naive B cells. BCMA binds two ligands, proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL, TNFSF13, TALL-2, CD256) and B-cell activating factor (BAFF, BLYS, TNFSF13B, TALL-1, CD257). BCMA has a higher binding affinity for APRIL than BAFF. Multiple myeloma (MM) cells express high levels of BCMA. BCMA-targeted antibodies with ligand-blocking activity, both as naked IgG and as drug conjugates, may promote cytotoxicity of MM cells. The restricted expression of BCMA in late mature B cells also makes them an ideal co-target for chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T cells), which are T cells genetically engineered to express a chimeric antigen receptor to target modified T cell specific cellular proteins. CAR-T cells offer a promising immunotherapy for B cell cancers, but their mechanism of action is not well understood and the side effects of CAR-T cell therapy are often severe and include cytokine release syndrome (cytokine storm) and neurotoxicity.

[0006] Understanding the role of CD3 and BCMA has also led to a related immunotherapy known as bispecific T cell redirecting antibodies. Bispecific antibodies targeting both CD3 and BCMA may be useful in treating multiple myeloma by redirected T cell cytotoxicity (RTCC). Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention provides novel antibodies that bind with high affinity to CD3 and novel antibodies that bind with high affinity to BCMA. The present invention also provides BCMA / CD3 bispecific Fabs-in-Tandem immunoglobulins (FIT-Ig) that are reactive with both CD3 and BCMA. The present invention also provides BCMA / CD3 bispecific monovalent asymmetric tandem Fab antibodies (MAT-Fab) that are reactive with both CD3 and BCMA. The antibodies and bispecific binding proteins of the present invention can activate the TCR-CD3 complex. The bispecific multivalent binding proteins described herein are useful as CMA / CD3, bispecific inhibitors to provide a synergistic combination effect in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) cells by redirected T cell cytotoxicity.

[0008] The invention also provides methods of making and using the anti-CD3 antibodies, anti-BCMA antibodies and BCMA / CD3 bispecific binding proteins described herein, as well as methods of making various compositions that may be used in methods of detecting CD3 and / or BCMA in a sample or methods of treating or preventing a disorder associated with CD3 activity and / or BCMA activity in an individual.

[0009] In a further embodiment, the invention provides a method for the preparation of a polypeptide comprising a first, second, and third polypeptide chain, The first polypeptide chain comprises, from the amino terminus to the carboxyl terminus: (i) VL A -CL-VH B -CH1-Fc (wherein CL is VH B or (ii) directly fused to VH B -CH1-VL A -CL-Fc, where CH1 is VL A directly fused to The second polypeptide chain comprises, from the amino terminus to the carboxyl terminus, A - comprising CH1; and The third polypeptide chain comprises, from the amino terminus to the carboxyl terminus, B- comprising CL; Provided is a bispecific Fabs-in-Tandem immunoglobulin (FIT-Ig) binding protein, where VL is a light chain variable domain, CL is a light chain constant domain, VH is a heavy chain variable domain, CH1 is a heavy chain constant domain, Fc is an immunoglobulin Fc region, A is an epitope of CD3 or BCMA, and B is an epitope of CD3 or BCMA, where A and B are different. In the present invention, such FIT-Ig binding proteins bind to both CD3 and BCMA.

[0010] In a further embodiment, the Fab fragment of such a FIT-Ig binding protein comprises a VL sequence derived from a parent antibody that binds to one of the antigen targets CD3 or BCMA. A Domains and VHs A VL domains are combined and derived from different parent antibodies that bind to the other of the antigen targets CD3 and BCMA B Domains and VHs B Thus, the VH domains of the first, second and third polypeptide chains are A -CH1 / VL A -CL and VH B -CH1 / VL B -CL pairing results in a tandem Fab portion that recognizes CD3 and BCMA.

[0011] In the present invention, a BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein advantageously comprises a first, a second and a third polypeptide chain, said first polypeptide chain comprising, from the amino terminus to the carboxyl terminus, the VL CD3 -CL-VH BCMA -CH1-Fc (wherein CL is VH BCMA fused directly to VH, said second polypeptide chain comprising, from the amino terminus to the carboxyl terminus, CD3 -CH1; and said third polypeptide chain comprises, from the amino terminus to the carboxyl terminus, BCMA -CL; VL CD3is the light chain variable domain of an anti-CD3 antibody, CL is the light chain constant domain, and VH CD3 is the heavy chain variable domain of an anti-CD3 antibody, CH1 is the heavy chain constant domain, and VL BCMA is the light chain variable domain of an anti-BCMA antibody, and VH BCMA is the heavy chain variable domain of an anti-BCMA antibody and Fc is an immunoglobulin Fc region. Advantageously, in the first polypeptide chain, the domain VL CD3 -CL is the same as the light chain of the anti-CD3 parent antibody and has the domain VH CD3 -CH1 is the same as the heavy chain variable domain and heavy chain constant domain of the anti-CD3 parent antibody, and the domain VL BCMA -CL is the same as the light chain of the anti-BCMA parent antibody and has the domain VH BCMA -CH1 is the same as the heavy chain variable and heavy chain constant domains of the anti-BCMA parent antibody.

[0012] In another embodiment, the BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein may advantageously comprise a first, second and third polypeptide chain, said first polypeptide chain comprising, from the amino terminus to the carboxyl terminus, the VL BCMA -CL-VH CD3 -CH1-Fc (wherein CL is VH CD3 fused directly to VH, said second polypeptide chain comprising, from the amino terminus to the carboxyl terminus, BCMA -CH1; and said third polypeptide chain comprises, from the amino terminus to the carboxyl terminus, CD3 -CL; VL CD3 is the light chain variable domain of an anti-CD3 antibody, CL is the light chain constant domain, and VH CD3 is the heavy chain variable domain of an anti-CD3 antibody, CH1 is the heavy chain constant domain, and VL BCMA is the light chain variable domain of an anti-BCMA antibody, and VH BCMA is the heavy chain variable domain of an anti-BCMA antibody and Fc is an immunoglobulin Fc region. Advantageously, in the first polypeptide chain, the domain VL BCMA-CL is the same as the light chain of the anti-BCMA parent antibody and has the domain VH BCMA -CH1 is the same as the heavy chain variable and heavy chain constant domains of the anti-BCMA parent antibody, and domain VL CD3 -CL is the same as the light chain of the anti-CD3 parent antibody and has the domain VH CD3 -CH1 is identical to the heavy chain variable and heavy chain constant domains of the anti-CD3 parent antibody.

[0013] In another embodiment, the BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein may advantageously comprise a first, second and third polypeptide chain, said first polypeptide chain comprising, from the amino terminus to the carboxyl terminus, a VH BCMA -CH1-VL CD3 -CL-Fc, where CH1 is VL CD3 fused directly to a VL BCMA and said third polypeptide chain comprises, from the amino terminus to the carboxyl terminus, VH CD3 - CH1; VL CD3 is the light chain variable domain of an anti-CD3 antibody, CL is the light chain constant domain, and VH CD3 is the heavy chain variable domain of an anti-CD3 antibody, CH1 is the heavy chain constant domain, and VL BCMA is the light chain variable domain of an anti-BCMA antibody, and VH BCMA is the heavy chain variable domain of an anti-BCMA antibody and Fc is an immunoglobulin Fc region. Advantageously, in the first polypeptide chain, the domain VL BCMA -CL is the same as the light chain of the anti-BCMA parent antibody and has the domain VH BCMA -CH1 is the same as the heavy chain variable domain and heavy chain constant domain of the anti-BCMA parent antibody, and the domain VL CD3 -CL is the same as the light chain of the anti-CD3 parent antibody and has the domain VH CD3 -CH1 is identical to the heavy chain variable and heavy chain constant domains of the anti-CD3 parent antibody.

[0014] In another embodiment, the BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein may advantageously comprise a first, second and third polypeptide chain, said first polypeptide chain comprising, from the amino terminus to the carboxyl terminus, a VH CD3 -CH1-VL BCMA -CL-Fc, where CH1 is VL BCMA fused directly to a VL CD3 and said third polypeptide chain comprises, from the amino terminus to the carboxyl terminus, VH BCMA - CH1; VL CD3 is the light chain variable domain of an anti-CD3 antibody, CL is the light chain constant domain, and VH CD3 is the heavy chain variable domain of an anti-CD3 antibody, CH1 is the heavy chain constant domain, and VL BCMA is the light chain variable domain of an anti-BCMA antibody, and VH BCMA is the heavy chain variable domain of an anti-BCMA antibody and Fc is an immunoglobulin Fc region. Advantageously, in the first polypeptide chain, the domain VL BCMA -CL is the same as the light chain of the anti-BCMA parent antibody and has the domain VH BCMA -CH1 is the same as the heavy chain variable domain and heavy chain constant domain of the anti-BCMA parent antibody, and the domain VL CD3 -CL is the same as the light chain of the anti-CD3 parent antibody and has the domain VH CD3 -CH1 is identical to the heavy chain variable and heavy chain constant domains of the anti-CD3 parent antibody.

[0015] In the above formula for the first polypeptide chain of the FIT-Ig binding protein, the Fc region can be a native or mutated Fc region. In certain embodiments, the Fc region is a human Fc region derived from IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4, IgA, IgM, IgE, or IgD. In certain embodiments, the Fc is a human Fc derived from IgG1, such as that shown below.

[0016] [ka]

[0017] In one embodiment of the invention, the FIT-Ig binding proteins of the invention retain one or more properties of the parent antibody from which the Fab fragment sequence was utilized and incorporated into the FIT-Ig structure. In a further embodiment, the FIT-Ig will retain binding affinity to its target antigens (i.e., CD3 and BCMA) that is comparable to that of the parent antibody, meaning that the binding affinity of the FIT-Ig binding protein to the CD3 and BCMA antigen targets is no more than 10-fold different compared to the binding affinity of the parent antibody to their respective target antigens as measured by surface plasmon resonance or biolayer interferometry.

[0018] In one embodiment, the BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein of the invention binds CD3 and BCMA and is composed of a first polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:50; a second polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:51; and a third polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:52.

[0019] In another embodiment, the BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein of the invention binds CD3 and BCMA and is composed of a first polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:53; a second polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:54; and a third polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:55.

[0020] In another embodiment, the BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein of the invention binds CD3 and BCMA and is composed of a first polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 80; a second polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 81; and a third polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 82.

[0021] In another embodiment, the BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein of the invention binds CD3 and BCMA and is composed of a first polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 83; a second polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 84; and a third polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 85.

[0022] In another embodiment, the BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein of the invention binds CD3 and BCMA and is composed of a first polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 86; a second polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 87; and a third polypeptide chain comprising, consisting essentially of, or consisting of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 88.

[0023] The present invention also provides a novel antibody capable of binding to human CD3, the antigen-binding domain of which comprises a set of six CDRs selected from the group of CDR sets defined below, namely CDR-H1, CDR-H2, CDR-H3, CDR-L1, CDR-L2, and CDR-L3.

[0024] [Table 1]

[0025] The present invention also provides a novel antibody capable of binding to human BCMA, the antigen-binding domain of which comprises a set of six CDRs selected from the group of CDR sets defined below, namely CDR-H1, CDR-H2, CDR-H3, CDR-L1, CDR-L2 and CDR-L3.

[0026] [Table 2]

[0027] In one embodiment the binding protein according to the invention is a bispecific multivalent immunoglobulin binding protein comprising two or more antigen binding sites, at least one antigen binding site comprising a CDR set selected from CDR sets 1 and 2 above and at least one antigen binding site comprising a CDR set selected from CDR sets 3 and 4 above.

[0028] In one embodiment, an anti-CD3 antibody according to the invention comprises a VH domain and a VL domain, wherein these two variable domains comprise an amino acid sequence selected from the following VH / VL pairs:

[0029] [Table 3]

[0030] In a further embodiment, the anti-BCMA antibody according to the invention comprises a VH domain and a VL domain, wherein the two variable domains comprise an amino acid sequence selected from the following VH / VL pairs:

[0031] [Table 4]

[0032] In another embodiment, anti-CD3 or anti-BCMA antibodies can be used to generate derivative binding proteins that recognize the same target antigen by techniques well established in the art. Such derivatives can be, for example, single chain antibodies (scFv), Fab fragments (Fab), Fab' fragments, F(ab')2, Fv, and disulfide-linked Fv.

[0033] The Fab fragment of an immunoglobulin is composed of two components that are covalently associated to form the antibody binding site: a variable domain-constant domain chain (VH-CH1 or VL-CL), and each VC chain of the Fab is sometimes described as one "half" of a Fab binding unit.

[0034] In another aspect of the invention, the antibodies or bispecific binding proteins described herein can modulate the biological function of CD3, BCMA, or both. In another aspect, the anti-CD3 antibodies described herein can inhibit CD3 signaling. In another aspect, the anti-BCMA antibodies described herein can inhibit the interaction of BCMA with its ligands APRIL and / or BAFF, and optionally, the anti-BCMA antibodies according to the invention can inhibit cell signaling pathways mediated by BCMA.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the anti-CD3 antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof described herein have a binding rate constant (k on ) is at least 1×10 5 M -1 s -1 , e.g., at least 3.3 x 10 5 M -1 s -1 That's all.

[0036] In another embodiment, the anti-CD3 antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof described herein have a dissociation rate constant (k off ) is 5 x 10 -3 is less than.

[0037] In another embodiment, the anti-CD3 antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof described herein have a dissociation constant (K D ) is 2 x 10 -8 Less than m, e.g., 1.5 x 10 -8 Less than M.

[0038] In some embodiments, the anti-BCMA antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof described herein have a binding rate constant (k on ) is at least 4 × 10 4 M -1 s -1 , e.g., at least 1 x 10 5 M -1 s -1 , at least 2 × 10 5 M -1 s -1 That's all.

[0039] In another embodiment, the anti-BCMA antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof described herein have a dissociation rate constant (k off ) is 5 x 10 -3 s -1 Less than 1×10 -3 s -1 Less than 5×10 -4 s -1 Less than 2×10 -5 s -1 Less than or equal to 1 × 10 -5 s -1 is less than.

[0040] In another embodiment, the anti-BCMA antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof described herein have a dissociation constant (K D ) is 2 x 10 -8 Less than M, 1×10 -9 Less than M or 5 x 10 -10 Less than M.

[0041] In one embodiment, the bispecific BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein capable of binding to CD3 and BCMA according to the present invention has a binding rate constant (k on ) is at least 1×10 5 M -1 s -1 , e.g., at least 2 x 10 5 M -1 s -1 , or at least 3 × 10 5 M -1 s -1 or greater, and the binding rate constant (k on ) is at least 5×10 4 M -1 s -1 , e.g., at least 6 × 10 4 M -1 s -1 , or at least 8×10 4 M -1 s -1 In a further embodiment, a bispecific BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein capable of binding to CD3 and BCMA as described herein has a binding rate constant (k on ) is the k on not more than a 10-fold decrease in the k value of the parent anti-BCMA antibody against BCMA onIn other words, the binding rate constant for each antigen (CD3 or BCMA) retained by the FIT-Ig binding protein is less than the binding rate constant (k on As disclosed herein, the BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein has a k on k for one or both antigens compared to on may show improvement in the kappa antibody response to one or both antigens. on are substantially the same as those exhibited by the parent antibody, or the k for one or both antigens exhibited by the FIT-Ig binding protein, on When the k is reduced compared to the parent antibody, the reduction may be less than 10-fold. For example, the k of FIT-Ig against a particular antigen on of the parent antibody against that antigen on The decrease in k of the parent antibody in the bispecific FIT-Ig is less than 50%, and less than 25%. on Compared to this high k on The retention of values ​​is a surprising achievement in the art.

[0042] In one embodiment, a bispecific FIT-Ig binding protein capable of binding to CD3 and BCMA according to the present invention has a dissociation rate constant (k off ) is 1×10 -2 s -1 Less than 8×10 -3 s -1 Less than 7×10 -3 s -1 Less than, for example, 6 x 10 -3 s -1 and the dissociation rate constant (k off ) is 5 x 10 -5 s -1 Less than 4×10 -5 s-1 Less than 3×10 -5 s -1 Less than or 5×10 -6 s -1 Less than.

[0043] In another embodiment, the bispecific BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein capable of binding to CD3 and BCMA according to the present invention has a dissociation constant for CD3 (K D ) is 5 x 10 -8 Less than M, 3 x 10 -8 Less than M, 2 x 10 -8 Less than M or 1.75 x 10 -8 M and the dissociation constant (K D ) is 1 × 10 -9 Less than M, 6×10 -10 Less than M, 3 x 10 -10 Less than M, 1×10 -10 Less than M, 8×10 -11 Less than M or 6 x 10 -11 In a further embodiment, the bispecific FIT-Ig binding protein capable of binding to CD3 and BCMA described herein has a dissociation constant for human CD3 (K D ) are the K for CD3 of the parent anti-CD3 antibody from which the anti-CD3 and anti-BCMA specificities of the FIT-Ig binding protein, respectively, are derived. D The K D In other words, the dissociation constant (K D The binding affinity of the parent antibody to each antigen (CD3 or BCMA), as indicated by the K D is within a single digit.

[0044] As disclosed herein, the BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein has a K D K for one or both antigens compared to D(i.e., lower K D value; more tightly bound) or a K D are substantially the same as those exhibited by the parent antibody, or the K for one or both antigens exhibited by the FIT-Ig binding protein, respectively. D is the K of the parent antibody D (i.e., higher K D Although there may be cases where the FIT-Ig binding protein binds weaker than the parent antibody, there is a K D For example, the BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein has a K expression level for one or both antigens that is greater than or equal to 10-fold for each antigen displayed by one or both parent antibodies. D Lower K compared to D (tighter binding). K D Retention of binding affinity of the parent anti-CD3 and anti-BCMA antibodies ±10-fold in this study is a surprising achievement in the art.

[0045] The present invention also provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one anti-CD3 antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof as described herein and a pharma- ceutically acceptable carrier. The present invention also provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one anti-BCMA antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof and a pharma- ceutically acceptable carrier. The present invention also provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising a combination of an anti-CD3 antibody and an anti-BCMA antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof as described herein and a pharma- ceutically acceptable carrier. The present invention also provides a bispecific polyvalent immunoglobulin binding protein reactive with both CD3 and BCMA, which binding protein incorporates VH / VL binding sites derived from an anti-CD3 antibody and an anti-BCMA antibody as described herein. In particular, the present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one FIT-Ig binding protein or at least one MAT-Fab binding protein capable of binding to CD3 and BCMA and a pharma- ceutically acceptable carrier. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention may further comprise at least one additional active ingredient. In certain embodiments, such additional components include, but are not limited to, therapeutic agents, imaging agents, cytotoxic agents, angiogenesis inhibitors, kinase inhibitors, costimulatory molecule blockers, adhesion molecule blockers, antibodies or functional fragments thereof of different specificity, detectable labels or reporters; agonists or antagonists for specific cytokines, narcotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), analgesics, anesthetics, sedatives, local anesthetics, neuromuscular blocking agents, antibacterial agents, corticosteroids, anabolic steroids, erythropoietin, immunogens, immunosuppressants, growth hormones, hormone replacement drugs, radiopharmaceuticals, antidepressants, antipsychotics, stimulants (e.g., amphetamines, caffeine, etc.), beta agonists, inhaled steroids, epinephrine or analogs, cytokines.

[0046] In another embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition further comprises at least one additional therapeutic agent for treating a disorder in which CD3- and / or BCMA-mediated signaling activity is detrimental.

[0047] In further embodiments, the present invention provides isolated nucleic acids encoding one or more amino acid sequences of the anti-CD3 antibodies of the present invention, or antigen-binding fragments thereof; isolated nucleic acids encoding one or more amino acid sequences of the anti-BCMA antibodies of the present invention, or antigen-binding fragments thereof; and isolated nucleic acids encoding one or more amino acid sequences of a bispecific Fabs-in-Tandem immunoglobulin (FIT-Ig) binding protein capable of binding both CD3 and BCMA. Such nucleic acids can be inserted into vectors to perform various genetic analyses or to express, characterize, or improve one or more properties of the antibodies or binding proteins described herein. A vector can comprise one or more nucleic acid molecules encoding one or more amino acid sequences of the antibodies or binding proteins described herein, operably linked to appropriate transcription and / or translation sequences that allow expression of the antibodies or binding proteins in a particular host cell harboring the vector. Examples of vectors for cloning or expressing nucleic acids encoding amino acid sequences of the binding proteins described herein include, but are not limited to, pcDNA, pTT, pTT3, pEFBOS, pBV, pJV, and pBJ, and derivatives thereof.

[0048] The present invention also provides a host cell comprising a vector comprising a nucleic acid encoding one or more amino acid sequences of an antibody or binding protein described herein. Host cells useful in the present invention can be prokaryotic or eukaryotic. An exemplary prokaryotic host cell is Escherichia coli. Eukaryotic cells useful as host cells in the present invention include protist cells, animal cells, plant cells, and fungal cells. An exemplary fungal cell is a yeast cell, including Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Exemplary animal cells useful as host cells in accordance with the present invention include, but are not limited to, mammalian cells, avian cells, and insect cells. Exemplary mammalian cells include, but are not limited to, CHO cells, HEK cells, and COS cells. An insect cell useful as a host cell in accordance with the present invention is an insect Sf9 cell.

[0049] In another aspect, the invention provides a method for producing an anti-CD3 antibody or functional fragment thereof, comprising culturing a host cell comprising an expression vector encoding the antibody or functional fragment in a culture medium under conditions sufficient to cause the host cell to express the antibody or fragment capable of binding to CD3. In another aspect, the invention provides a method for producing an anti-BCMA antibody or functional fragment thereof, comprising culturing a host cell comprising an expression vector encoding the antibody or functional fragment in a culture medium under conditions sufficient to cause the host cell to express the antibody or fragment capable of binding to BCMA. In another aspect, the invention provides a method for producing a bispecific multivalent binding protein capable of binding to CD3 and BCMA, in particular a FIT-Ig binding protein, comprising culturing a host cell comprising an expression vector encoding the binding protein in a culture medium under conditions sufficient to cause the host cell to express the binding protein capable of binding to CD3 and BCMA. The protein so produced can be isolated and used in the various compositions and methods described herein.

[0050] In one embodiment, the invention provides a method for treating cancer in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject an anti-CD3 antibody or CD3-binding fragment thereof as described herein, which is capable of binding to CD3 and inhibiting CD3-mediated signaling in CD3-expressing cells. In another embodiment, the invention provides a method for treating cancer in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject an anti-BCMA antibody or BCMA-binding fragment thereof as described herein, which is capable of binding to BCMA and inhibiting BCMA-mediated signaling in BCMA-expressing cells. In another embodiment, the invention provides a method for treating cancer in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject a bispecific FIT-Ig binding protein capable of binding to both CD3 and BCMA as described herein, which is capable of binding to CD3 and BCMA and inhibiting CD3-mediated signaling in CD3-expressing cells and inhibiting BCMA-mediated signaling in BCMA-expressing cells.

[0051] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method for treating an autoimmune disease or cancer in a subject in need thereof, wherein the binding protein can bind to CD3 and BCMA, and the autoimmune disease or cancer is an autoimmune disease or cancer that typically responds to immunotherapy. In another embodiment, the cancer is a cancer that is not associated with immunotherapy. In another embodiment, the cancer is a cancer that is a refractory or recurrent malignancy. In another embodiment, the binding protein inhibits tumor cell proliferation or survival. In another embodiment, the cancer is selected from the group consisting of melanoma (e.g., metastatic malignant melanoma), kidney cancer (e.g., clear cell carcinoma), prostate cancer (e.g., hormone refractory prostate adenocarcinoma), pancreatic adenocarcinoma, breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer (e.g., non-small cell lung cancer), esophageal cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, liver cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, thyroid cancer, glioblastoma, glioma, leukemia, lymphoma, and other de novo malignancies.

[0052] The therapeutic methods described herein may further comprise administering to a subject in need thereof an immunostimulatory adjuvant, such as a CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (CpG ODN) comprising a complete or partial phosphodiester or phosphorothioate backbone. For example, in the therapeutic methods of the present invention, the composition comprising the antibody or FIT-Ig binding protein of the present invention and the composition administered to the subject in need of treatment may incorporate an immunostimulatory adjuvant. In another embodiment, the therapeutic methods of the present invention may comprise the step of administering to a subject in need of treatment an antibody or FIT-Ig binding protein described herein and the separate step of administering to the subject an immunostimulatory adjuvant before, simultaneously with, or after the step of administering to the subject an antibody or FIT-Ig binding protein of the present invention. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0053] [Figure 1]Figure 1 is a collection of plots showing the binding of test antibodies to a human CD3ε / γ heterodimer-Fc fusion protein target immobilized on a microplate. The binding activity of the newly isolated mAb CD3-001 and mAb CD3-002 is compared to a reference anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody ("control α-CD3 mAb") and an irrelevant mouse antibody ("mIgG") as a negative control. [Diagram 2] Figure 2 is a collection of plots showing the binding of test antibodies to a cynomolgus monkey CD3ε / γ heterodimer-Fc fusion protein target immobilized on a microplate. The binding activity of the newly isolated mAb CD3-001 and mAb CD3-002 is compared to a reference anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody ("control α-CD3 mAb") and an irrelevant mouse antibody ("mIgG") as a negative control. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a bar graph showing stimulation of proliferation of in vitro cultured human T cells by anti-CD3 antibodies mAb CD3-001 (invention) and OKT3 (positive control). [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a bar graph showing stimulation of interferon-gamma (IFN-g) secretion by in vitro cultured human T cells by anti-CD3 antibodies mAb CD3-001 (invention) and OKT3 (positive control). [Figure 5A-5H] Figures 5A-5H are fluorescence plots comparing the binding activity of humanized anti-CD3 antibody constructs using various humanized VH variants of mAb CD3-001 and one of two VK variants (EM0006-01VK.1 or EM0006-01VK.1A, see Table 2). These plots show that the VH variants are important for CD3 binding activity, and that alterations to the VL had little effect on binding to Jurkat cells. Classification of some plots in graph panels 5A-5H allowed the identification of extremely high affinity humanized antibodies such as HuEM0006-01-8 and HuEM0006-01-17 in contrast to intermediate and low affinity binders. [Figure 6]Figure 6 is a graph showing the ability of various anti-BCMA antibodies to inhibit NF-κB phosphorylation induced by the BCMA ligand BAFF in the BCMA-expressing tumor cell line NCI-H929. Anti-BAFF mAb and an irrelevant anti-RAC1 mouse IgG were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. The novel anti-BCMA antibodies mAb BCMA-002 and mAb BCMA-003 described herein performed comparably to reference antibodies (labeled TAB1 and TAB2 in Figure 6) described in the patent literature. See Example 3.3 below for details. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a graph showing the ability of various anti-BCMA antibodies to inhibit NF-kB phosphorylation induced by the BCMA ligand BAFF in the HEK293 transfected BCMA expressing cell line HEK293F-BCMA-NF-kB-luc. Anti-BCMA reference antibodies TAB1 and TAB2 were used as positive controls for comparison. An irrelevant anti-Ro1 mouse IgG was used as a control. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a graph showing the ability of anti-BCMA antibodies to inhibit NF-kB-luciferase signaling induced by the BCMA ligand APRIL (TNFSF13) in BCMA transfected HEK293 cells. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a graph showing binding of BCMA / CD3 bispecific FIT-Ig Fab fragments to BCMA-expressing NCI-H929 cells. The three FIT-Fabs tested have the same BCMA binding domain. See Examples 4.1, 4.2, and 4.3. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a graph showing binding of BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding proteins to CHO cells transfected to express the human T cell receptor complex (CHOK1 / CD3 / TCR) (see Example 1.1). The three FIT-Ig binding proteins tested have different CD3 binding sites derived from three different humanized parent anti-CD3 antibodies. See Example 4.3. [Figure 11]Figure 11 is a graph showing the ability of BCMA / CD3 bispecific FIT-Igs and BCMA / CD3 FIT-Fab to redirect activation of Jurkat-NFAT cells co-cultured with NCI-H929 cells. For comparison, monospecific anti-CD3 IgG (HuEM1006-01-24) and its Fab fragment (HuEM1006-01-24-Fab) were tested, and irrelevant human IgG was used as a negative control. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a graph showing the ability of BCMA / CD3 bispecific FIT-Fab binding proteins to redirect activation of Jurkat-NFAT cells co-cultured with NCI-H929. A combination of anti-BCMA and anti-CD3 monoclonal antibodies and an irrelevant Fab (FIT1002-5a-Fab) were used as controls. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a graph showing the ability of various BCMA / CD3 bispecific FIT-Fabs to redirect T cell cytotoxicity against NCI-H929 cells. An irrelevant FIT-Fab (FIT1002-5a-Fab), a combination of anti-CD3 Fab mAb and anti-BCMA mAb (combo), a reference anti-BCMA mAb (TAB1) alone, anti-CD3 Fab alone (HuEM1006-01-24-Fab), and an irrelevant human IgG were used as controls. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a graph showing that humanized BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig and BCMA / CD3 FIT-Fab show limited activation of non-target redirected Jurkat-NFAT cells when assays are performed without BCMA-expressing NCI-H929 target cells. Anti-CD3 IgG (HuEM1006-01-24), its Fab fragment (HuEM1006-01-24-Fab), an irrelevant FIT-Ig (FIT1002-5a), and an irrelevant human IgG (hIgG) were used as controls. [Figure 15]15 is a graph showing that humanized BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig according to the invention was able to redirect T cell cytotoxicity against NCI-H929 tumor cells. Mouse-human chimeric FIT-Ig (FIT1006-4b) and an irrelevant FIT-Ig (FIT1002-5a) were used as controls. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a graph showing the binding activity of the two BCMA / CD3 humanized bispecific FIT-Ig binding proteins to BCMA-expressing NCI-H929 cells. An irrelevant human IgG antibody (hIgG) was used as a control. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a graph showing the binding activity of the two BCMA / CD3 humanized bispecific FIT-Ig binding proteins to CD3-expressing Jurkat cells. An irrelevant human IgG antibody (hIgG) was used as a control. [Figure 18-19] Figures 18 and 19 show the binding activity to BCMA-expressing (Figure 18) and CD3-expressing (Figure 19) target cells, both confirming targeting of the bispecific constructs in two alternative configurations. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 shows the inhibition of tumor growth in human PBMC-engrafted NPSG mice achieved by treatment with BCMA×CD3 FIT-Ig. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 shows B cell depletion induced by treatment with BCMA×CD3 FIT-Ig. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 shows the transient loss of circulating T cells in FIT-Ig treated cynomolgus monkeys. Description of the Invention

[0054] The present invention relates to novel anti-CD3 antibodies, novel anti-BCMA antibodies, antigen-binding portions thereof, and multivalent bispecific binding proteins, such as Fabs-in-Tandem Immunoglobulins (FIT-Ig) and "monovalent asymmetric tandem Fab bispecific antibodies" or "MAT-Fab bispecific antibodies" or simply "MAT-Fab antibodies." Various aspects of the invention relate to anti-CD3 and anti-BCMA antibodies and antibody fragments, FIT-Ig binding proteins, and MAT-Fab binding proteins that bind human CD3 and human BCMA, and pharmaceutical compositions thereof, as well as nucleic acids, recombinant expression vectors, and host cells for making such antibodies, functional antibody fragments, and binding proteins. Also encompassed by the invention are methods of using the antibodies, functional antibody fragments, and bispecific binding proteins of the invention to detect human CD3, human BCMA, or both; to inhibit human CD3 and / or human BCMA activity in vitro or in vivo; and to treat diseases, particularly cancer, mediated by binding of CD3 and / or BCMA to their ligands, i.e., T cell receptor and proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), respectively.

[0055] Unless otherwise defined herein, scientific and technical terms used in connection with the present invention shall have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art. The meaning and scope of these terms should be clear, but in the event of potential ambiguity, the definitions set forth herein shall take precedence over dictionary or external definitions. Furthermore, unless otherwise required by context, singular terms shall include the plural and plural terms shall include the singular. In this specification, the use of "or" means "and / or" unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, the use of the term "including" as well as other forms such as "includes" and "included" is non-limiting. Additionally, terms such as "element" or "component" include both elements and components comprising one unit and elements and components comprising multiple subunits, unless otherwise specified.

[0056] In general, the nomenclature used in connection with, and techniques of, cell and tissue culture, molecular biology, immunology, microbiology, genetics, protein and nucleic acid chemistry, and hybridization described herein are well known and commonly used in the art. The methods and techniques of the present invention are generally performed according to conventional methods well known in the art and as described in the various general and more specific references cited and described herein, unless otherwise indicated. Enzymatic reactions and purification techniques are performed according to manufacturer's specifications or as commonly accomplished in the field or as described herein. The nomenclature used in connection with, and experimental procedures and techniques of, analytical chemistry, synthetic organic chemistry, and medicinal chemistry described herein are well known and commonly used in the art. Standard techniques are used for chemical synthesis, chemical analysis, pharmaceutical preparation, formulation, delivery, and treatment of patients.

[0057] In order that the present invention may be more readily understood, selected terms are defined below.

[0058] The term "polypeptide" refers to any polymeric chain of amino acids. The terms "peptide" and "protein" are used interchangeably with the term polypeptide, which also refers to a polymeric chain of amino acids. The term "polypeptide" includes natural or artificial proteins, protein fragments, and polypeptide analogs of protein amino acid sequences. The term "polypeptide" includes fragments and variants thereof (including variant fragments), unless the context otherwise contradicts. In the case of an antigenic polypeptide, a fragment of a polypeptide optionally includes at least one continuous or non-linear epitope of the polypeptide. The exact boundaries of at least one epitopic fragment can be ascertained using routine techniques in the art. A fragment comprises at least about 5 consecutive amino acids, e.g., at least about 10 consecutive amino acids, at least about 15 consecutive amino acids, or at least about 20 consecutive amino acids. A variant of a polypeptide is as described herein.

[0059] The term "isolated protein" or "isolated polypeptide" refers to a protein or polypeptide that, by reason of its origin or source of derivation, is not associated with naturally associated components with which it is associated in its natural state, is substantially free of other proteins from the same species, is expressed by cells of heterologous origin, or is not naturally occurring. Thus, a polypeptide that is chemically synthesized or synthesized in a cellular system other than the cell from which it is naturally derived is "isolated" from its naturally associated components. A protein can also be rendered substantially free of naturally associated components by isolation, using protein purification techniques well known in the art.

[0060] The term "recovering" refers to the process of rendering a chemical species, such as a polypeptide, substantially free of naturally associated components, for example, by isolation using protein purification techniques well known in the art.

[0061] The term "biological activity" refers to any biological property of an anti-CD3 or anti-BCMA antibody described herein. Biological properties of CD3 antibodies include, but are not limited to, binding to CD3 protein; biological properties of anti-BCMA antibodies include, but are not limited to, binding to, for example, proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), and / or B-cell activating factor (BAFF) protein.

[0062] With respect to the interaction of an antibody, binding protein, or peptide with a second chemical species, the term "specific binding" or "specifically binds" means that the interaction is dependent on the presence of a particular structure (e.g., an antigenic determinant or epitope) on the second chemical species. For example, antibodies recognize and bind to specific protein structures rather than proteins in general. If an antibody is specific for epitope "A", then the presence of a molecule containing epitope A (or free, unlabeled A) in a reaction containing labeled "A" and the antibody will reduce the amount of labeled A that binds to the antibody.

[0063] The term "antibody" broadly refers to any immunoglobulin (Ig) molecule composed of four polypeptide chains, two heavy (H) chains and two light (L) chains, or any functional fragment, mutant, variant, or derivative thereof that retains the essential epitope binding characteristics of an Ig molecule. Such mutant, variant, or derivative antibody formats are known in the art. Non-limiting embodiments thereof are discussed below.

[0064] In full length antibodies, each heavy chain is composed of a heavy chain variable region (abbreviated herein as VH) and a heavy chain constant region. The heavy chain constant region is composed of three domains: CH1, CH2, and CH3. Each light chain is composed of a light chain variable region (abbreviated herein as VL) and a light chain constant region. The light chain constant region is composed of one domain, CL. The VH and VL regions can be further subdivided into hypervariable regions called complementarity determining regions (CDRs) interspersed with more conserved regions called framework regions (FRs). Each VH and VL is composed of three CDRs and four FRs arranged from amino-terminus to carboxy-terminus in the following order: FR1, CDR1, FR2, CDR2, FR3, CDR3, FR4. The first, second and third CDRs of a VH domain are commonly listed as CDR-H1, CDR-H2, and CDR-H3, and similarly the first, second and third CDRs of a VL domain are commonly listed as CDR-L1, CDR-L2, and CDR-L3. Immunoglobulin molecules may be of any type (e.g., IgG, IgE, IgM, IgD, IgA and IgY), class (e.g., IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4, IgA1 and IgA2) or subclass.

[0065] The term "Fc region" is used to define the C-terminal region of an immunoglobulin heavy chain and can be generated by papain digestion of an intact antibody. The Fc region can be a native sequence Fc region or a variant Fc region. The Fc region of an immunoglobulin generally comprises two constant domains, namely, a CH2 domain and a CH3 domain, and optionally a CH4 domain, as in the case of the Fc regions of IgM and IgE antibodies, for example. The Fc regions of IgG, IgA, and IgD antibodies comprise a hinge region, a CH2 domain, and an H3 domain. In contrast, the Fc regions of IgM and IgE antibodies lack a hinge region, but comprise a CH2 domain, a CH3 domain, and a CH4 domain. Variant Fc regions with substitutions of amino acid residues in the Fc portion to alter antibody effector functions are known in the art (see, for example, Winter et al., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,648,260 and 5,624,821). The Fc portion of an antibody mediates several important effector functions, such as cytokine induction, ADCC, phagocytosis, complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), and half-life / clearance rate of antibodies and antigen-antibody complexes. While these effector functions may be desirable for therapeutic antibodies, they may be unnecessary or even harmful for some therapeutic purposes. Certain human IgG isotypes, particularly IgG1 and IgG3, mediate ADCC and CDC via binding to FcγRs and complement C1q, respectively. In yet another embodiment, at least one amino acid residue is substituted in the constant region of an antibody, such as the Fc region of an antibody, such that the effector function of the antibody is altered. Dimerization of two identical heavy chains of an immunoglobulin is mediated by dimerization of the CH3 domains and stabilized by disulfide bonds in the hinge region that connects the CH1 constant domain to the Fc constant domains (e.g., CH2 and CH3). The anti-inflammatory activity of IgG is entirely dependent on sialylation of the N-linked glycans of the IgG Fc fragment.The exact glycan requirements for anti-inflammatory activity have been determined so that suitable IgG1 Fc fragments can be engineered, generating fully recombinant sialylated IgG1 Fc with greatly enhanced potency (see Anthony et al., Science, 320:373-376 (2008)).

[0066] The terms "antigen-binding portion" and "antigen-binding fragment" or "functional fragment" of an antibody are used interchangeably and refer to one or more fragments of an antibody that retain the ability to specifically bind to an antigen, i.e., the same antigen (e.g., CD3, BCMA) as the full-length antibody from which the portion or fragment is derived. It has been shown that the antigen-binding function of an antibody can be performed by fragments of a full-length antibody. Such antibody embodiments may also be bispecific, dual specific, or multispecific formats that specifically bind to two or more different antigens (e.g., CD3 and a different antigen, such as BCMA). Examples of binding fragments included in the "antigen-binding portion" of an antibody include: (i) a Fab fragment, which is a monovalent fragment consisting of the VL, VH, CL, and CH1 domains; (ii) an F(ab')2 fragment, which is a bivalent fragment comprising two Fab fragments linked by a disulfide bridge at the hinge region; (iii) an Fd fragment consisting of the VH and CH1 domains; (iv) an Fv fragment consisting of the VL and VH domains of a single arm of an antibody, (v) a dAb fragment comprising a single variable domain (Ward et al., Nature, 341: 544-546 (1989); PCT Publication No. WO90 / 05144); and (vi) an isolated complementarity determining region (CDR). Furthermore, although the two domains of the Fv fragment, VL and VH, are encoded by separate isolated genes, they can be linked by a synthetic linker that allows them to be produced using recombinant techniques as a single protein in which the VL and VH regions pair to form a monovalent molecule (known as single-chain Fv (scFv); see, e.g., Bird et al., Science, 242: 423-426 (1988); and Huston et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 85: 5879-5883 (1988)). Such single-chain antibodies are also intended to be encompassed by the term "antigen-binding portion" of an antibody as set forth above, and equivalent terms. Other forms of single-chain antibodies, such as diabodies, are also included.Diabodies are bivalent, bispecific antibodies in which the VH and VL domains are expressed on a single polypeptide chain, but are forced to pair with complementary domains on another chain to create two antigen-binding sites, due to the use of a linker that is too short to allow pairing between the two domains on the same chain (see, e.g., Holliger et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 90: 6444-6448 (1993)). Such antibody binding moieties are known in the art (Kontermann and Duebel, eds., ). Antibody Engineering (Springer-Verlag, New York, 2001), p. 790 (ISBN 3-540-41354-5)). In addition, single chain antibodies also include "linear antibodies" comprising a pair of tandem Fv segments (VH-CH1-VH-CH1) that form a pair of antigen-binding regions with complementary light chain polypeptides (Zapata et al., Protein Eng., 8(10): 1057-1062 (1995); and US Patent No. 5,641,870)).

[0067] Immunoglobulin constant (C) domain refers to the heavy (CH) or light (CL) chain constant domain. The amino acid sequences of mouse and human IgG heavy and light chain constant domains are known in the art.

[0068] The term "monoclonal antibody" or "mAb" refers to an antibody obtained from a population of substantially homogeneous antibodies, i.e., the individual antibodies comprising the population are identical except for minor natural mutations that may be present. Monoclonal antibodies are highly specific, being directed against a single antigenic determinant (epitope). Furthermore, in contrast to polyclonal antibody preparations which typically include different antibodies directed against different determinants (epitopes), each mAb is directed against a single determinant on the antigen. The modifier "monoclonal" should not be construed as requiring production of the antibody by a particular method.

[0069] The term "human antibody" includes antibodies having variable and constant regions derived from human germline immunoglobulin sequences. Human antibodies of the invention may include, for example, in the CDRs, particularly CDR3, amino acid residues not encoded by human germline immunoglobulin sequences (e.g., mutations introduced by random or site-specific mutagenesis in vitro or by somatic mutation in vivo). However, the term "human antibody" does not include antibodies in which CDR sequences derived from the germline of another mammalian species, such as a mouse, have been grafted onto human framework sequences.

[0070] The term "recombinant human antibody" refers to antibodies expressed using a recombinant expression vector transfected into a host cell, antibodies isolated from a recombinant combinatorial human antibody library (Hoogenboom, HR, Trends Biotechnol., 15: 62-70 (1997); Azzazy and Highsmith, Clin. Biochem., 35: 425-445 (2002); Gavilondo and Larrick, BioTechniques, 29: 128-145 (2000); Hoogenboom and Chames, Immunol. Today, 21: 371-378 (2000)), antibodies isolated from animals (e.g., mice) transgenic for human immunoglobulin genes (e.g., Taylor et al., Nucl. Acids Res., 20: 6287-6295 (1992); Kellermann and Green, Curr. Opin. Biotechnol., 13: 593-597 (2002); Little et al., Immunol. Today, 21: 364-370 (2000)); or any other means, including antibodies comprising splicing of human immunoglobulin gene sequences to other DNA sequences. Such recombinant human antibodies have variable and constant regions derived from human germline immunoglobulin sequences. However, in certain embodiments, such recombinant human antibodies are subject to in vitro mutagenesis (or in vivo somatic mutagenesis, in the case of using animals transgenic for human Ig sequences), such that the amino acid sequences of the VH and VL regions of the recombinant antibodies, while derived from and related to human germline VH and VL sequences, are sequences that may not naturally occur within the human antibody germline repertoire in vivo.

[0071] The term "chimeric antibody" refers to an antibody that comprises heavy and light chain variable region sequences of one species and constant region sequences of another species, e.g., an antibody having murine heavy and light chain variable regions linked to human constant regions.

[0072] The term "CDR-grafted antibody" refers to an antibody comprising heavy and light chain variable region sequences in which the sequence of one or more CDR regions of the VH and / or VL have been replaced with the CDR sequence of another species, e.g., an antibody having human heavy and light chain variable regions in which one or more of the human CDRs have been replaced with murine CDR sequences.

[0073] The term "humanized antibody" refers to an antibody that comprises heavy and light chain variable region sequences derived from a non-human species (e.g., mouse), but in which at least a portion of the VH and / or VL sequences have been altered to be more "human-like", i.e., more similar to human germline variable sequences. One type of humanized antibody is a CDR-grafted antibody in which CDR sequences from a non-human species (e.g., mouse) have been introduced into human VH and VL framework sequences. A humanized antibody is an antibody or variant, derivative, analog, or fragment thereof that immunospecifically binds to an antigen of interest and comprises framework and constant regions having substantially the amino acid sequence of a human antibody and complementarity determining regions (CDRs) having substantially the amino acid sequence of a non-human antibody. As used herein, the term "substantially" with respect to CDRs refers to CDRs that have amino acid sequences at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 98% or at least 99% identical to the amino acid sequence of the non-human antibody CDR. A humanized antibody comprises substantially all of at least one, and typically two, variable domains (Fab, Fab', F(ab')2, Fv), with all or substantially all of the CDR regions corresponding to those of a non-human immunoglobulin (i.e., donor antibody) and all or substantially all of the framework regions being those of a human immunoglobulin consensus sequence. In certain embodiments, the humanized antibody also comprises at least a portion of an immunoglobulin constant region (Fc), typically that of a human immunoglobulin. In some embodiments, the humanized antibody comprises both a light chain as well as at least the variable domains of a heavy chain. The antibody may also comprise the CH1, hinge, CH2, CH3, and CH4 regions of the heavy chain. In some embodiments, the humanized antibody comprises only a humanized light chain. In some embodiments, the humanized antibody comprises only a humanized heavy chain. In certain embodiments, the humanized antibody comprises only a humanized variable domain of the light chain and / or a humanized heavy chain.

[0074] The humanized antibody may be selected from any class of immunoglobulins, including IgM, IgG, IgD, IgA, and IgE, and any isotype, including but not limited to IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4. The humanized antibody may comprise sequences from more than one class or isotype, and particular constant domains may be selected to optimize effector function of the formulation using techniques well known in the art.

[0075] The framework and CDR regions of a humanized antibody do not have to correspond strictly to the parental sequences, for example, the donor antibody CDR or the acceptor framework may be mutagenized by substitution, insertion and / or deletion of at least one amino acid residue, such that the CDR or framework residue at that site does not correspond to either the donor antibody or the consensus framework. In certain exemplary embodiments, however, such mutations are not extensive. Usually, at least 80%, e.g., at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95% of the humanized antibody residues correspond to those of the parental FR and CDR sequences. Back mutations at certain framework positions to restore the same amino acid found at that position in the donor antibody are often utilized to preserve a particular loop structure or to properly orient the CDR sequence for contact with the target antigen.

[0076] The term "CDR" refers to the complementarity determining region within an antibody variable domain sequence. There are three CDRs in each of the heavy and light chain variable regions, which are called CDR-H1, CDR-H2, CDR-H3, CDR-L1, CDR-L2, and CDR-L3. The term "CDR set" as used herein refers to a group of three CDRs present in a single variable region that can bind to an antigen. The exact boundaries of these CDRs are defined differently in different systems. Kabat (Kabat et al., Sequences of Proteins of Immunological Interest(National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland (1987) and (1991)) not only provides an unambiguous residue numbering scheme that can be applied to any variable region of an antibody, but also provides precise residue boundaries that define the three CDRs.

[0077] The art-recognized term "Kabat numbering" refers to a system for numbering amino acid residues that are more variable than other amino acid residues (i.e., hypervariable) in the heavy and light chain variable regions of an antibody or antigen-binding portion thereof. Kabat et al., Ann. NY Acad. Sci., 190: 382-391 (1971); and Kabat et al., Sequences of Proteins of Immunological Interest , 5th ed., US Department of Health and Human Services, NIH Publication No. 91-3242 (1991).

[0078] The growth and analysis of large public databases of amino acid sequences of variable heavy and light chain regions over the past two decades has led to an understanding of the typical boundaries between framework regions (FR) and CDR sequences within variable region sequences, enabling one of skill in the art to accurately determine CDRs according to Kabat numbering, Chothia numbering, or other systems. See, e.g., Martin, "Protein Sequence and Structure Analysis of Antibody Variable Domains," In Kontermann and Duebel, eds., Antibody Engineering (Springer-Verlag, Berlin, 2001), Chapter 31, pp. 432-433.

[0079] The term "multivalent binding protein" refers to a binding protein comprising two or more antigen binding sites. Multivalent binding proteins are preferably engineered to have three or more antigen binding sites and are generally not naturally occurring antibodies. The term "bispecific binding protein" refers to a binding protein that can bind to two targets with different specificities. "Fabs-in-Tandem Immunoglobulin" (FIT-Ig) binding proteins of the present invention comprise two or more antigen binding sites and are generally tetravalent binding proteins. FIT-Ig can be monospecific, i.e., bind one antigen, or multispecific, i.e., bind two or more antigens. An exemplary FIT-Ig according to the present invention binds both CD3 and BCMA and is therefore bispecific. FIT-Ig binding proteins comprising two long (heavy) VCVC-Fc chain polypeptides and four short (light) VC chain polypeptides form a hexamer exhibiting four Fab antigen binding sites (VH-CH1 paired with VL-CL, sometimes designated VH-CH1::VL-CL). Each half of FIT-Ig comprises one heavy chain polypeptide and two light chain polypeptides, and the complementary immunoglobulin pairing of the VH-CH1 and VL-CL elements of these three chains results in two Fab structured antigen binding sites arranged in tandem. In the present invention, the immunoglobulin domains comprising the Fab elements are preferably fused directly within the heavy chain polypeptide without the use of an interdomain linker. That is, the N-terminal VC element of the long (heavy) polypeptide chain is fused at its C-terminus directly to the N-terminus of another VC element, which is then linked to a C-terminal Fc region. In a bispecific FIT-Ig binding protein, the tandem Fab elements are reactive with different antigens. Each Fab antigen binding site comprises a heavy chain variable domain and a light chain variable domain, with a total of six CDRs per antigen binding site. In some embodiments, the multivalent binding protein of the present invention is a FIT-Ig Fab fragment (i.e., FIT-Fab), which is a FIT-Ig substantially lacking a C-terminal Fc region.Such FIT-Fabs can be obtained by removing the C-terminal Fc region from an existing FIT-Ig, or can be produced by any of a number of techniques known in the art, such as, for example, expression from a host cell comprising an expression vector encoding the corresponding peptide chain.

[0080] A description of the design, expression, and characterization of FIT-Ig molecules is provided in PCT Publication No. WO2015 / 103072. An example of such a FIT-Ig molecule comprises a heavy chain and two distinct light chains. The heavy chain has the structural formula VL A -CL-VH B -CH1-Fc (where CL is VH B fused directly to VH B -CH1-VL A -CL-Fc (wherein CH1 is VL A fused directly to the VL A is a light chain variable domain derived from a parent antibody that binds antigen A, and VH B is a heavy chain variable domain derived from a parent antibody that binds antigen B, CL is a light chain constant domain, CH1 is a heavy chain constant domain, and Fc is an immunoglobulin Fc region (e.g., the C-terminal hinge-CH2-CH3 portion of the heavy chain of an IgG1 antibody). The two light polypeptide chains of FIT-Ig each have the formula VH A -CH1 and VL B In an embodiment of the bispecific FIT-Ig, antigen A and antigen B are different antigens or different epitopes of the same antigen. In the present invention, one of A and B is CD3 and the other is BCMA.

[0081] As used herein, the term "directly fused," when referring to the linear connection of two domains within a polypeptide structure, means that the domains are directly linked by a peptide bond without the use of an artificial polypeptide linker or connector.

[0082] The term "activity" includes properties such as the ability to bind a target antigen with specificity, the affinity of the antibody for the antigen, the ability to neutralize the biological activity of the target antigen, the ability to inhibit the interaction of the target antigen with its natural receptor, etc. Exemplary antibodies and binding proteins of the invention have the ability to inhibit binding of CD3 to its ligands, the ability to inhibit binding of BCMA to its ligands, or, in the case of the bispecific binding proteins described herein, both.

[0083] "k on The term "K" (also "K" or "k"), as used herein, is intended to refer to the binding rate constant for the association of a binding protein (e.g., an antibody) with an antigen to form an association complex, e.g., an antibody / antigen complex, as known in the art. on " is also known by the term "association rate constant," or "ka," as used interchangeably herein. This value indicates the rate of binding of an antibody to its target antigen or the rate of complex formation between an antibody and an antigen, as shown in the following formula: Antibody (“Ab”) + Antigen (“Ag”) → Ab-Ag

[0084] "k off The term "Koff" (also "koff"), as used herein, is intended to refer to the off rate constant for dissociation of a binding protein (e.g., an antibody) from an association complex (e.g., an antibody / antigen complex), or "dissociation rate constant," as known in the art. This value indicates the rate of dissociation of an antibody from its target antigen or the separation of an Ab-Ag complex into free antibody and antigen over time, as shown in the following formula: Ab+Ag←Ab-Ag

[0085] "K D The term "(also "Kd"), as used herein, is intended to refer to the "equilibrium dissociation constant" and is used in titrations at equilibrium or as a function of the dissociation rate constant (k off ) to the association rate constant (k onThe association rate constant (k on ), dissociation rate constant (k off ), and the equilibrium dissociation constant (K D ) is used to express the binding affinity of an antibody to an antigen. Methods for determining association and dissociation rate constants are well known in the art. The use of fluorescence-based techniques offers high sensitivity and the ability to examine samples in physiological buffers at equilibrium. Other experimental approaches and instruments such as BIAcore® (Biomolecular Interaction Analysis) assays can also be used (e.g., instruments available from BIAcore International AB, a GE Healthcare company, Uppsala, Sweden). Biolayer Interferometry (BLI), for example, using the Octet® RED96 system (Pall ForteBio LLC), is another affinity assay technique. Additionally, KinExA® (Kinetic Exclusion Assay) assays available from Sapidyne Instruments (Boise, Idaho) can also be used.

[0086] The term "isolated nucleic acid" is intended to mean a polynucleotide (e.g., of genomic, cDNA, or synthetic origin, or some combination thereof) that is not associated by human intervention with all or a portion of a polynucleotide with which it is found in nature; is operably linked to a polynucleotide with which it is not naturally linked; or does not naturally occur as part of a larger sequence.

[0087] The term "vector", as used herein, is intended to refer to a nucleic acid molecule capable of transporting another nucleic acid to which it is linked. One type of vector is a "plasmid", which refers to a circular double-stranded DNA loop into which additional DNA segments can be ligated. Another type of vector is a viral vector, in which additional DNA segments can be ligated into the viral genome. Certain vectors are capable of autonomous replication in a host cell into which they are introduced (e.g., bacterial vectors having a bacterial origin of replication and episomal mammalian vectors). Other vectors (e.g., non-episomal mammalian vectors) can be integrated into the genome of a host cell upon introduction into the host cell, and are thus replicated along with the host genome. In addition, certain vectors can direct the expression of genes to which they are operatively linked. Such vectors are referred to herein as "recombinant expression vectors" (or simply "expression vectors"). In general, expression vectors useful in recombinant DNA techniques are often in the form of plasmids. As used herein, "plasmid" and "vector" can be used interchangeably with plasmid, which is the most commonly used form of vector. However, the invention is intended to include other forms of expression vectors, such as viral vectors (eg, replication defective retroviruses, adenoviruses and adeno-associated viruses), which serve equivalent functions.

[0088] The term "operably linked" refers to a juxtaposition where the described components are in a relationship that allows them to function in their intended manner. A control sequence "operably linked" to a coding sequence is linked in such a way that expression of the coding sequence is achieved under conditions compatible with the control sequences. "Operatively linked" sequences include both expression control sequences adjacent to the gene of interest and expression control sequences that act in trans or at a distance to control the gene of interest. The term "expression control sequences" as used herein refers to polynucleotide sequences necessary to effect expression and processing of the coding sequence to which they are linked. Expression control sequences include appropriate transcription initiation, termination, promoter and enhancer sequences; efficient RNA processing signals, such as splicing and polyadenylation signals; sequences that stabilize cytoplasmic mRNA; sequences that enhance translation efficiency (i.e., Kozak consensus sequences); sequences that enhance protein stability; and, if desired, sequences that promote protein secretion. The nature of such control sequences varies depending on the host organism; in prokaryotes, such control sequences generally include promoters, ribosomal binding sites, and transcription termination sequences; in eukaryotes, generally, such control sequences include promoters and transcription termination sequences. The term "control sequence" is intended to include components whose presence is essential for expression and processing, and can also include additional components whose presence is advantageous, for example, leader or signal sequences and fusion partner sequences.

[0089] "Transformation" as defined herein refers to any process by which exogenous DNA enters a host cell. Transformation can occur under natural or artificial conditions using a variety of methods well known in the art. Transformation can be by any method known for the insertion of foreign nucleic acid sequences into prokaryotic or eukaryotic host cells. The method is selected based on the host cell to be transformed and can include, but is not limited to, transfection, viral infection, electroporation, lipofection, and particle bombardment. Such "transformed" cells include stably transformed cells in which the inserted DNA can replicate as an autonomously replicating plasmid or as part of the host chromosome. Also included are cells that transiently express the inserted DNA or RNA for a limited period of time.

[0090] The term "recombinant host cell" (or simply "host cell") is intended to refer to a cell into which exogenous DNA has been introduced. In certain embodiments, a host cell comprises two or more (e.g., a plurality) nucleic acids encoding an antibody, such as, for example, a host cell described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,262,028. Such terms are intended to refer not only to the particular subject cell, but also to the progeny of such a cell. Since certain modifications may occur in successive generations, either due to mutation or environmental influences, such progeny may not in fact be identical to the parent cell, but are still included within the scope of "host cell" as used herein. In certain embodiments, host cells include prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells selected from any kingdom of life. In other embodiments, eukaryotic cells include protist, fungal, plant and animal cells. In another embodiment, host cells include, but are not limited to, prokaryotic Escherichia coli strains; mammalian cell lines CHO, HEK293, COS, NS0, SP2, and PER.C6; insect cell line Sf9; and fungal cell Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

[0091] Standard techniques can be used for recombinant DNA, oligonucleotide synthesis, and tissue culture and transformation (e.g., electroporation, lipofection). Enzymatic reactions and purification techniques can be performed according to manufacturer's specifications or as commonly accomplished in the art, as described herein. The foregoing techniques and procedures can generally be performed according to conventional methods well known in the art, as described in the various general and more specific references cited and discussed herein. See, e.g., Sambrook et al., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual , 2nd ed. (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 1989).

[0092] The term "agonist" as used herein refers to a modulator that, upon contact with a molecule of interest, produces an increase in the magnitude of a particular activity or function of the molecule compared to the magnitude of that activity or function seen in the absence of the agonist. The terms "antagonist" and "inhibitor" as used herein refer to a modulator that, upon contact with a molecule of interest, produces a decrease in the magnitude of a particular activity of the molecule compared to the magnitude of that activity or function seen in the absence of the antagonist. Particular antagonists of interest include those that block or reduce the biological or immunological activity of human CD3 and human BCMA.

[0093] As used herein, the term "effective amount" refers to the amount of a therapy sufficient to reduce or ameliorate the severity and / or duration of a disorder or one or more symptoms thereof, prevent progression of a disorder, cause regression of a disorder, prevent the recurrence, onset or progression of one or more symptoms associated with a disorder, detect a disorder, or enhance or improve the prophylactic or therapeutic effects of another therapy (e.g., a prophylactic or therapeutic agent).

[0094] Production of anti-CD3 and anti-BCMA antibodies The anti-CD3 and anti-BCMA antibodies of the present invention may be produced by any of a number of techniques known in the art. For example, for expression from a host cell, expression vectors encoding the heavy and light chains are transfected into the host cell by standard techniques. The various forms of the term "transfection" are intended to include the various techniques commonly used for the introduction of exogenous DNA into prokaryotic or eukaryotic host cells, such as electroporation, calcium phosphate precipitation, DEAE-dextran transfection, etc. Although it is possible to express the antibodies of the present invention in either prokaryotic or eukaryotic host cells, expression of the antibodies in eukaryotic cells, such as mammalian host cells, is preferred, since such cells (especially mammalian cells) are more likely to assemble and secrete properly folded and immunologically active antibodies than prokaryotic cells.

[0095] Exemplary mammalian host cells for expressing the recombinant antibodies of the invention include Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells (dhfr - These include CHO cells, e.g., in combination with a DHFR selection marker as described in Kaufman and Sharp, J. Mol. Biol., 159: 601-621 (1982), NS0 myeloma cells, COS cells, and SP2 cells. When a recombinant expression vector encoding an antibody gene is introduced into a mammalian host cell, the antibody is produced by culturing the host cell for a period of time sufficient to express the antibody in the host cell, or by secretion of the antibody into the culture medium in which the host cell is growing. The antibody can be recovered from the culture medium using standard protein purification methods.

[0096] The host cells can also be used to produce functional antibody fragments, such as Fab fragments or scFv molecules. Variations of the above procedures are understood to be within the scope of the present invention. For example, it may be desirable to transfect host cells with functional fragments encoding DNA of either the light and / or heavy chains of the antibody of the present invention. Recombinant DNA technology can also be used to remove some or all of the DNA encoding either or both of the light and heavy chains that is not necessary for binding to the antigen of interest. Molecules expressed from such truncated DNA molecules are also included in the antibodies of the present invention. Furthermore, bifunctional antibodies, in which one heavy chain and one light chain are the antibodies of the present invention and the other heavy and light chains are specific for an antigen other than the antigen of interest, can be produced by crosslinking the antibodies of the present invention by standard chemical crosslinking methods to obtain a second antibody.

[0097] In an exemplary system for recombinant expression of an antibody of the invention, or an antigen-binding portion thereof, a recombinant expression vector encoding both the antibody heavy chain and the antibody light chain is transfected with dhfr - The recombinant expression vector is introduced into CHO cells. In the recombinant expression vector, the antibody heavy and light chain genes are operably linked to the CMV enhancer / AdMLP promoter regulatory elements to drive high levels of gene transcription. The recombinant expression vector also carries a DHFR gene that allows for selection of CHO cells transfected with the vector using methotrexate selection / amplification. The selected transfected host cells are cultured to allow for expression of the antibody heavy and light chains, and intact antibody is recovered from the culture medium. Standard molecular biology techniques are used to generate the recombinant expression vector, transfect the host cells, select the transfectants, culture the host cells, and recover the antibody from the culture medium. The present invention still further provides a method for producing a recombinant anti-CD3 antibody or anti-BCMA antibody of the present invention by culturing the transfected host cells of the present invention in a suitable culture medium until the recombinant antibody of the present invention is produced. The method further comprises isolating the recombinant antibody from the culture medium.

[0098] Production of bispecific FIT-Ig that binds to CD3 and BCMA The present invention provides Fabs-in-Tandem immunoglobulin binding proteins (FIT-Ig) that bind to both CD3 and BCMA. An exemplary embodiment of such a FIT-Ig molecule is represented by the formula (1): A -CL-VH B -CH1-Fc (wherein CL is VH B or a polypeptide of formula (ii) B -CH1-VL A -CL-Fc, where CH1 is VL A (2) a heavy polypeptide chain comprising either a VH A -CH1 light polypeptide chain; and (3) VL B -CL, where VL is a light chain variable domain, CL is a light chain constant domain, VH is a heavy chain variable domain, CH1 is a heavy chain constant domain, Fc is an immunoglobulin Fc region, A is an epitope of CD3 or BCMA, and B is an epitope of CD3 or BCMA, with the proviso that A and B are different. In the present invention, such FIT-Ig binding proteins bind to both CD3 and BCMA.

[0099] When recombinantly expressed in a suitable host cell, the three chains of FIT-Ig typically assemble as a six-chain, multivalent, monomeric protein, similar to natural immunoglobulins, where two such heavy chains (1), two such light chains (2), and two such light chains (3) assemble to form a six-chain binding protein monomer exhibiting four functional Fab antigen-binding sites. Such FIT-Ig binding proteins comprise two identical subunits, each of which comprises one heavy chain (1), one light chain (2), and one light chain (3), which together form a pair of tandemly arranged Fab binding sites. The pairing of the Fc regions of two such heavy chain subunits results in the six-chain, bispecific, FIT-Ig binding protein of the invention, with a total of four functional Fab binding units.

[0100] Although it is possible to separate the tandemly connected Fab moieties using a peptide linker on the heavy chain, in the case of the bispecific FIT-Igs according to the invention, omission of such a linker sequence is preferred. In multivalent engineered immunoglobulin formats with tandem binding sites, it was usually understood in the art that adjacent binding sites would interfere with each other unless a flexible linker was used to spatially separate these binding sites. However, in the BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig of the invention, the arrangement of the immunoglobulin domains in the above chain format results in polypeptide chains that are fully expressed in transfected mammalian cells, can be properly assembled, and are secreted as bispecific multivalent immunoglobulin-like binding proteins that bind the target antigens CD3 and BCMA. Despite the lack of a linker sequence between the Fab binding sites, the BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig of the invention retains binding affinity to the target antigen and exhibits binding affinity comparable to that of the parent mA. Furthermore, removal of the synthetic linker sequence from the binding protein avoids the creation of antigenic sites that are recognized by the mammalian immune system; thus, removal of the linker reduces the potential immunogenicity of FIT-Ig and results in a circulating half-life similar to that of natural antibodies, i.e., FIT-Ig is not rapidly cleared by immune opsonization and is not trapped in the liver.

[0101] Each variable domain (VH or VL) in FIT-Ig can be derived from one or more "parent" monoclonal antibodies that bind to one of the target antigens, i.e., CD3 or BCMA. The FIT-Ig binding protein is advantageously produced using variable domain sequences of anti-CD3 and anti-BCMA monoclonal antibodies as disclosed herein. For example, the parent antibody is a humanized antibody. The variable domains can also be prepared or improved using affinity maturation techniques.

[0102] One aspect of the present invention relates to the selection of parent antibodies that have at least one or more properties desired in a FIT-Ig molecule. In certain embodiments, these antibody properties are selected from the group consisting of antigen specificity, affinity for antigen, potency, biological function, epitope recognition, stability, solubility, production efficiency, lack of immunogenicity, pharmacokinetics, bioavailability, tissue cross-reactivity, and orthologous antigen binding. Both CD3 and BCMA are cell surface proteins and interactions with their respective ligands impose intracellular signaling pathways, therefore, optimal bispecific BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig and FIT-Fab of the present invention will be able to inhibit or block CD3- and / or BCMA-mediated signaling.

[0103] The antibodies, their functional fragments, and binding proteins according to the present invention can be purified (for intended use) using various methods and materials available in the art for purifying antibodies and binding proteins. Such methods and materials include, but are not limited to, affinity chromatography (e.g., using Protein A, Protein G, Protein L, or resins, particles, or membranes conjugated with specific ligands of antibodies, their functional fragments, or binding proteins), ion exchange chromatography (e.g., using ion exchange particles or membranes), hydrophobic interaction chromatography ("HIC"; e.g., using hydrophobic particles or membranes), ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, diafiltration, size exclusion chromatography ("SEC"), low pH treatment (to inactivate contaminating viruses), and combinations thereof to obtain a purity acceptable for intended use. A non-limiting example of a low pH treatment to inactivate contaminating viruses comprises lowering the pH of a solution or suspension comprising an antibody, functional fragment thereof, or binding protein of the invention to pH 3.5 with 0.5 M phosphoric acid at 18°C ​​to 25°C for 60 to 70 minutes.

[0104] Uses of the Antibodies and Binding Proteins of the Invention Given their ability to bind human CD3 and / or BCMA, the antibodies, functional fragments thereof, and bispecific multivalent binding proteins described herein can be used to detect CD3 or BCMA, or both, in biological samples that contain, for example, cells expressing one or both of these target antigens. The antibodies, functional fragments, and binding proteins of the invention can be used in traditional immunoassays, such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), radioimmunoassays (RIAs), or immunohistochemistry. The invention provides a method for detecting CD3 or BCMA in a biological sample, comprising contacting the biological sample with an antibody, antigen-binding portion thereof, or binding protein of the invention, and detecting whether it binds to the target antigen, thereby determining the presence or absence of the target in the biological sample. The antibodies, functional fragments, or binding proteins may be directly or indirectly labeled with a detectable substance to facilitate detection of the bound or unbound antibody / fragment / binding protein. Suitable detectable substances include various enzymes, prosthetic groups, fluorescent substances, luminescent substances, and radioactive substances. Examples of suitable enzymes include horseradish peroxidase, alkaline phosphatase, β-galactosidase, or acetylcholine esterase. Examples of suitable prosthetic group complexes include streptavidin / biotin and avidin / biotin; examples of suitable fluorescent materials include umbelliferone, fluorescein, fluorescein isothiocyanate, rhodamine, dichlorotriazinylamine fluorescein, dansyl chloride, or phycoerythrin; examples of suitable luminescent materials include luminol; examples of suitable radioactive materials include 3 H 、 14 C 、 35 S, 90 Y, 99 Tc, 111 In, 125 I, 131 I, 177 Lu, 166 Ho, or 153 Examples include Sm.

[0105] The antibodies, functional fragments thereof, and binding proteins of the invention are preferably capable of neutralizing human CD3 and / or human BCMA activity both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, the antibodies, functional fragments thereof, and binding proteins of the invention can be used to inhibit human CD3 activity and / or human BCMA activity, for example to inhibit cell signaling mediated by CD3 / T-cell interactions and / or BCMA / B-cell interactions in cell cultures comprising CD3-expressing and / or BCMA-expressing cells in human subjects or other mammalian subjects having CD3 or BCMA with which the antibodies, functional fragments thereof, or binding proteins of the invention cross-react.

[0106] In another embodiment, the invention provides a method for treating a subject suffering from a disease or disorder in which CD3 activity and / or BCMA activity is detrimental, such method comprising administering to the subject an antibody or binding protein of the invention in an effective amount such that activity mediated by CD3 binding and / or BCMA binding in the subject is reduced.

[0107] As used herein, the term "disorder in which CD3 activity and / or BCMA activity is detrimental" includes diseases and other disorders in which the interaction of CD3 with a CD3 ligand or the interaction of BCMA with a BCMA ligand in a subject suffering from the disorder contributes to the pathophysiology of the disorder or is a contributing factor in the exacerbation of the disorder. Thus, a disorder in which CD3 activity and / or BCMA activity is detrimental is one in which inhibition of CD3 activity and / or BCMA activity is expected to alleviate the symptoms and / or progression of the disorder.

[0108] In another embodiment, the invention provides a method for treating an autoimmune disease or cancer in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject an antibody, functional fragment thereof, or binding protein as described herein capable of binding to CD3, BCMA, or both CD3 and BCMA, wherein the autoimmune disease or cancer is a disease responsive to immunotherapy. In another embodiment, the method of the invention is used to treat an autoimmune disease or cancer that is not associated with immunotherapy. In another embodiment, the method of the invention is used to treat a cancer that is a refractory or recurrent malignancy. In another embodiment, the CD3 or BCMA antibody, functional fragment thereof, or BCMA / CD3 bispecific binding protein of the invention is used in a method of inhibiting tumor cell proliferation or survival.

[0109] In another embodiment, the invention provides a method for treating cancer in a subject comprising administering to the subject an antibody to CD3 or BCMA as described herein, a functional fragment thereof, or a BCMA / CD3 bispecific binding protein as described herein, e.g., a Fabs-in-tandem immunoglobulin (FIT-Ig) binding protein, or a MAT-Fab binding protein, wherein the cancer is selected from any of the group consisting of melanoma (e.g., metastatic malignant melanoma), kidney cancer (e.g., clear cell carcinoma), prostate cancer (e.g., hormone refractory prostate adenocarcinoma), pancreatic adenocarcinoma, breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer (e.g., non-small cell lung cancer), esophageal cancer, squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, liver cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, thyroid cancer, glioblastoma, glioma, leukemia, lymphoma, primary bone cancer (e.g., osteosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, malignant fibrous histiocytoma, and chondrosarcoma), metastatic cancer, and other de novo malignancies.

[0110] The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising an antibody, or antigen-binding portion thereof, or a bispecific multivalent binding protein (i.e., the main active ingredient), or a bispecific monovalent binding protein of the invention and a pharma- ceutically acceptable carrier. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the proteins of the invention are for use in, but not limited to, the diagnosis, detection, or monitoring of a disorder; the treatment, management, or amelioration of a disorder or one or more symptoms thereof; and / or in research. In certain embodiments, the composition comprises one or more antibodies or binding proteins of the invention. In another embodiment, the pharmaceutical composition comprises one or more antibodies or binding proteins of the invention and one or more prophylactic or therapeutic agents for treating a disorder in which CD3 activity and / or BCMA activity is detrimental, other than an antibody or binding protein of the invention. In certain embodiments, these prophylactic or therapeutic agents are known to be useful or have been used or are currently being used for the prevention, treatment, management, or amelioration of a disorder or one or more symptoms thereof. According to these embodiments, the composition may further comprise a carrier, diluent, or excipient. An excipient is generally any compound or combination of compounds that provides desired characteristics to the composition other than the primary active ingredient (ie, other than an antibody, functional portion thereof, or binding protein of the invention).

[0111] The antibodies (including functional fragments thereof) and binding proteins of the present invention can be formulated into pharmaceutical compositions suitable for administration to a subject. In general, pharmaceutical compositions comprise the antibodies or binding proteins of the present invention and a pharma- ceutically acceptable carrier. As used herein, "pharma- ceutically acceptable carriers" include any and all physiologically compatible solvents, dispersion media, coatings, antibacterial and antifungal agents, isotonic and absorption delaying agents, and the like. Examples of pharma- ceutical acceptable carriers include one or more of water, saline, phosphate buffered saline, dextrose, glycerol, ethanol, and the like, and combinations thereof. In many cases, it is preferred to include an isotonic agent, such as a sugar, a polyalcohol (e.g., mannitol or sorbitol), or sodium chloride in the composition. The pharma- ceutical acceptable carrier further comprises minor amounts of auxiliary substances, such as wetting or emulsifying agents, preservatives, or buffers, that enhance the shelf life or effectiveness of the antibodies or binding proteins present in the composition.

[0112] The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention is formulated to be compatible with its intended route of administration. Examples of routes of administration include, but are not limited to, parenteral (e.g., intravenous, intradermal, subcutaneous, intramuscular), oral, intranasal (e.g., inhalation), transdermal (e.g., topical), intratumoral, transmucosal, and rectal administration. In certain embodiments, the composition is routinely formulated as a pharmaceutical composition adapted for intravenous, subcutaneous, intramuscular, oral, intranasal, or topical administration to humans. In general, compositions for intravenous administration are solutions in sterile isotonic aqueous buffer. If necessary, the composition may also include a solubilizing agent and a local anesthetic such as lidocaine (xylocaine, lignocaine) to reduce pain at the site of injection.

[0113] The method of the invention may comprise administering a composition formulated for parenteral administration by injection (e.g., bolus injection or continuous infusion). Injectable formulations may be presented in unit dosage form (e.g., in ampoules or multi-dose containers) with an added preservative. The compositions may take such forms as suspensions, solutions or emulsions in oily or aqueous vehicles and may contain formulatory agents such as suspending, stabilizing and / or dispersing agents. Alternatively, the principal active ingredient may be in powder form for constitution with a suitable vehicle (e.g., sterile pyrogen-free water) before use.

[0114] The method of the present invention may further comprise administering the composition formulated as a depot preparation.Such long-acting formulations can be administered by implantation (e.g., subcutaneous or intramuscular) or intramuscular injection.Thus, for example, the composition can be formulated with suitable polymeric or hydrophobic materials (e.g., emulsion in acceptable oil) or ion exchange resins, or poorly soluble derivatives (e.g., poorly soluble salts).

[0115] The antibody, its functional fragment, or binding protein of the present invention can also be administered with one or more additional therapeutic agents useful for treating various diseases. The antibody, its functional fragment, and binding protein described herein can be used alone or in combination with an additional agent, e.g., a therapeutic agent, which is selected by the skilled artisan for its intended purpose. For example, the additional agent can be a therapeutic agent recognized in the art as being useful for treating the disease or condition treated by the antibody or binding protein of the present invention. The additional agent can also be an agent that imparts a beneficial attribute, e.g., an agent that affects the viscosity of the composition.

[0116] Having now described the invention in detail, it will be more clearly understood by reference to the following examples, which are included for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention. EXAMPLES

[0117] Example 1: Preparation of anti-human CD3 monoclonal antibody The anti-human CD3 monoclonal antibody was prepared as follows. Example 1.1: Induction of immunity by human CD3 antigen Anti-CD3 antibodies were obtained by immunizing groups of 10 Balb / c and SJL / J mice (Shanghai Laboratory Animal Center) with an alternating immunization strategy. Four different CD3 immunogens were used, including two peptides (CD3ε fragment: LSLKEFSELEQSGYYVC (SEQ ID NO: 2) and QDGNEEMGGITQTPYK (SEQ ID NO: 3)), recombinant huCD3εγ / Fc fusion protein (fusion protein heterodimer: first chain [ka] and the second strand [ka] , as well as a CHO cell line (CHOK1 / CD3 / TCR) transfected with full-length human CD3γ, CD3ε, CD3δ, CD3ζ (zeta), TCRα, and TCRβ chains to express the human T cell receptor complex.

[0118] Example 1.2: Hybridoma generation Mice were immunized with one of the immunogens at 2-week intervals (some groups were boosted with a different immunogen than that used in the primary immunization), and serum titers were monitored once a week after the second injection. After 4–6 immunizations, splenocytes were harvested and fused with mouse myeloma cells to generate hybridoma cell lines. Hybridoma cell supernatants were then screened for huCD3 / Fc dimer target and counterstained with an unrelated protein / Fc dimer to identify cell lines producing CD3-specific mouse antibodies. Positive hybridomas were tested in cell-binding assays against Jurkat cell targets and TCR complex-transfected CHO cell targets to confirm cell surface binding of the antibodies. Then, finally, the confirmed cell binders were tested for cynomolgus cross-reactivity by ELISA using cynoCD3εγ / Fc fusion protein as target, and anti-CD3 agonist activity was characterized using a Jurkat-NFAT-luciferase reporter cell line. Only two of the hybridomas tested in this manner produced monoclonal antibodies that screened positive in all assays, designated mAbCD3-001 and mAbCD3-002.

[0119] Example 1.3: Heavy and light chain variable region sequences To amplify the heavy and light chain variable regions, total RNA from each hybridoma clone was diluted to 5 × 10 6RNA was isolated from more than 1000 cells using TRIzol™ RNA Extraction Reagent (Invitrogen, Cat. No. 15596018). cDNA was synthesized using the Invitrogen™ Superscript™ III First-Strand Synthesis SuperMix Kit (ThermoFisher Scientific Cat. No. 18080) according to the manufacturer's instructions, and cDNA encoding the variable regions of the light and heavy mouse immunoglobulin chains was amplified using the MilliporeSigma™ Novagen™ Mouse Ig Primer Set (Fisher Scientific Cat. No. 698313). PCR products were analyzed by electrophoresis on 1.2% agarose gels with SYB™ Safe DNA Gel Stain (ThermoFisher Cat. No. S33102). DNA fragments of the correct size were purified using NucleoSpin® gel and PCR Clean-up kit (Macherey-Nagel Cat. No. 740609) according to the manufacturer's instructions and individually subcloned into pMD18-T vector. Fifteen colonies were selected from each transformation and the sequence of the inserted fragment was analyzed by DNA sequencing. At least eight colony fragments were sequenced to confirm whether they matched the consensus sequence of VH and VL. The protein sequences of the mouse monoclonal antibody variable regions were analyzed by sequence homology alignment and listed in Table 1. Complementarity determining regions (CDRs) are underlined based on Kabat numbering.

[0120] [Table 5]

[0121] Example 1.4: Anti-CD3 antibodies that bind to both human and cynomolgus CD3 The binding properties of the isolated mouse anti-CD3 antibodies were measured using ELISA as follows: Heterodimeric CD3εγ / Fc fusion protein was coated at 1 μg / mL on 96-well plates overnight at 4° C. The plates were washed once with washing buffer (PBS containing 0.05% Tween 20) and blocked with ELISA blocking buffer (1% BSA in PBS containing 0.05% Tween 20) for 2 hours at room temperature. Anti-CD3 antibodies were then added and incubated for 1 hour at 37° C. The plates were washed three times with washing buffer. HRP-labeled anti-mouse IgG secondary antibody (Sigma, Cat. No. A0168) was added and the plates were incubated for 30 minutes at 37° C. and washed five times in washing buffer. 100 μl of tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) color development solution was added to each well. After color development, the reaction was stopped with 1N HCl and the absorbance at 450 nm was measured using a Varioskan™ LUX microplate reader (ThermoFisher Scientific). Binding signals were plotted against antibody concentration using GraphPad Prism 5.0 software and EC50 was calculated accordingly. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, mAb CD3-002 showed the highest binding activity, while mAb CD3-001 had a binding EC50 comparable to the reference anti-CD3ε antibody expressed using the variable domain sequence reported in US Patent No. 8,236,308.

[0122] Example 1.5: Anti-CD3 antibodies activate human T cells in vitro Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were obtained from healthy donors by using Lymphoprep™ mononuclear cell isolation medium (STEMCELL Technologies, Cat. No. 07851), and T cells were isolated from PBMCs using a CD3 negative T cell selection kit (EasySep™ STEMCELL Technologies, Cat. No. 17951). Proliferation (CTG) and cytokine (IFN-γ) production data were obtained using the following protocol: 100 μl of test antibody (mAbCD3-001, OKT3, or negative control IgG) was coated onto high-binding 96-well plates (Nunc™, Cat. No. 3361) overnight at 4°C, followed by washing with DPBS. Commercially available OKT3 antibody was used as a positive anti-CD3 control, and irrelevant mouse IgG was used as a negative control. For each well, 1 × 10 5 T cells were seeded in 200 μl of culture medium (RPMI1640+10% FBS+1% penicillin-streptomycin solution+1% GlutaMAX™ additive) and incubated at 37° C. for 96 hours. Proliferation was measured by using an ATP-catalyzed quantification kit (CellTiter-Glo™, Promega). IFN-γ was measured by a LANCE® (Lanthanide Chelate Excite) TR-FRET Assay Kit (PerkinElmer, Cat. No. TRF1217M). Data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism 5.0 software. Results are shown in Figures 3 and 4. Cell proliferation and IFN-γ production data showed that mAb CD3-001 activates human T cells in vitro.

[0123] Example 2: Humanization of anti-CD3 antibodies Example 2.1: Humanization of mAb CD3-001 The anti-CD3 mAb CD3-001 variable region genes were used to generate humanized mAbs. In the first step of this process, the amino acid sequences of VH and VK of mAb CD3-001 (see Table 1 supra) were compared to available human Ig V gene sequence databases to find the best overall match of human germline Ig V gene sequence. Additionally, framework 4 of VH or VL was compared to the J region database to find the human framework with the greatest homology to the mouse VH and VL regions, respectively. For the light chain, the closest human V gene match was the B3 gene (V-base database), and for the heavy chain, the closest human match was the VH1-2 gene. Next, a humanized variable domain sequence was designed in which the CDR-L1, CDR-L2 and CDR-L3 of the mAbCD3-001 light chain were grafted into the framework sequence of the B3 gene with a JK4 framework 4 sequence after CDR-L3; and the CDR-H1, CDR-H2 and CDR-H3 sequences of the mAbCD3-001 VH were grafted into the framework sequence of VH1-2 with a JH6 framework 4 sequence after CDR-H3. A 3D Fv model of mAbCD3-001 was then generated and analyzed to determine whether there were framework residues that were less than 4 Å away from the CDR residues and were most likely important to aid loop structure or VH / VL interference. These residues in the humanized sequence should be backmutated to the mouse residues at the same positions to retain affinity / activity. The Q1E mutation was always included to eliminate the formation of N-terminal pyroglutamate, if applicable. For the heavy chain, the following potential mutations were identified: Y27F, T28S, V37M, M48I, V67A, M69L, and R71A (Kabat numbering). For the light chain, T5S and N22T were identified as back mutations. According to a hierarchy of the importance of each back mutation as judged by its interaction with CDR, the most important back mutations were introduced into the humanized VH sequence in order of priority, followed by other back mutations as sequential designs. Also, the VK CDR-L1 sequence had a NS pattern, which is a potential deamidation site.To remove the deamidability of this asparagine, NS was mutated to QS, NT, or NA in the humanized kappa chain. The humanized VH and VL constructs are shown in Table 2 (below). (Backmutated framework amino acid residues are double underlined, and the murine CDRs from the original parent antibody are underlined.)

[0124] [Table 6-1] [Table 6-2]

[0125] Humanized VH and VK genes, back-translated from the corresponding amino acid sequence designs, were synthesized de novo and then cloned into vectors containing human IgG1 and human kappa constant domains (SEQ ID NO:26 and SEQ ID NO:27, respectively).

[0126] [Table 7]

[0127] Pairing of human VH and human VK generated 27 humanized antibodies, designated HuEM0006-01-1 to HuEM0006-01-27 (Table 3). A chimeric antibody (HuEM0006-01c) with parental mouse VH / VL and human constant sequences was also generated and used as a positive control for ranking the humanized antibodies. All recombinant humanized mAbs were transiently expressed in HEK293 cells and purified by Protein A chromatography.

[0128] [Table 8-1] [Table 8-2]

[0129] Example 2.2: Humanized anti-CD3 antibodies exhibited different CD3 binding activities Different humanized VH and VK combinations resulted in humanized anti-CD3 variants with different CD3 binding affinities. The binding activity of the humanized variants of mAb CD3-001 was tested by flow cytometry on a human CD3-expressing Jurkat T cell line. 5×10 5 Jurkat cells were seeded into each well of a 96-well plate. The cells were centrifuged at 400g for 5 min and the supernatant was discarded. Then, for each well, 100 μl of serially diluted antibody was added and mixed with the cells. After 40 min of incubation at 4°C, the plate was washed several times to remove excess antibody. A secondary fluorochrome-conjugated antibody (Alexa Fluor® 647 Goat Anti-Human IgG1 H&L;Jackson ImmunoResearch, Cat. No. 109-606-170) was then added and incubated with the cells for 20 min at room temperature. After another centrifugation and washing step, the cells were resuspended in FACS buffer for reading on a CytoFLEX flow cytometer (Beckman Coulter). Median fluorescence intensity (MFI) readings were plotted against antibody concentration and analyzed with GraphPad Prism 5.0 software.

[0130] As shown in Figures 5A-5H, the humanized anti-CD3 antibodies exhibited a wide range of affinities for the cell surface CD3 target on Jurkat cells. The VH variants were apparently a key component of this CD3 binding modulation, as differences in the kappa chain (i.e., between EM0006-01VK.1 and EM0006-01VK.1A) did not appear to have a significant effect on binding. Several humanized antibodies, notably HuEM0006-01-08 and HuEM0006-01-17, which have the VH variant EM006-01VH.1H (see Table 4 and SEQ ID NO: 18), exhibited comparable but much higher CD3 binding than the chimeric control antibody HuEM0006-01c, which has the parental murine VH region EM0006-01VH (see Table 4).

[0131] Example 3: Generation of anti-BCMA monoclonal antibodies Anti-BCMA antibodies were generated by immunizing Balb / c or SJL mice with recombinant BCMA extracellular domain / Fc dimers formed by homodimerization of human BCMA (ECD) fused to a human Fc region.

[0132] [ka]

[0133] Mice were immunized at 2-week intervals and serum titers were monitored weekly after the second injection.

[0134] Example 3.1: Hybridoma generation After 4-6 rounds of immune induction, splenocytes were harvested and fused to mouse myeloma cells to form hybridoma cell lines. The fusion products were cultured in 96-well plates at 1 × 10 cells per well in selective medium containing hypoxanthine-aminopterin-thymidine (HAT). 5 Splenocytes were seeded at a density of 100x the normal concentration. Seven to 10 days after fusion, macroscopically visible hybridoma colonies were obtained. Hybridoma cell supernatants were then screened and selected to identify cell lines producing BCMA-specific mouse antibodies. Five anti-BCMA antibodies were selected and sequenced.

[0135] Example 3.2: Heavy and light chain variable region sequences To amplify the heavy and light chain variable regions, total RNA from each hybridoma clone was diluted with 5 × 10 6Cells were isolated from more than 1000 cells using TRIzol™ RNA extraction reagent (Invitrogen, Cat. No. 15596018). cDNA was synthesized using the Invitrogen™ Superscript™ III First-Strand Synthesis SuperMix Kit (ThermoFisher Scientific Cat. No. 18080) according to the manufacturer's instructions, and cDNA encoding the variable regions of the light and heavy mouse immunoglobulin chains was amplified using the MilliporeSigma™ Novagen™ Mouse Ig Primer Set (Fisher Scientific Cat. No. 698313). PCR products were analyzed by electrophoresis on 1.2% agarose gels using SYBR™ Safe DNA gel stain (ThermoFisher Cat. No. S33102). DNA fragments of the correct size were purified using NucleoSpin® gel and PCR Clean-up kit (Macherey-Nagel, Cat. No. 740609) according to the manufacturer's instructions and individually subcloned into pMD18-T vector. Fifteen colonies were selected from each transformation and the sequences of the inserted fragments were analyzed by DNA sequencing. The sequences of the fragments of at least eight colonies were confirmed to match the consensus sequences of VH and VL. The protein sequences of the mouse mAb variable regions were analyzed by sequence homology alignment.

[0136] Example 3.3: Binding Kinetics of Anti-BCMA Antibodies by Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) The binding affinity and rate constants of anti-BCMA antibodies were determined by surface plasmon resonance at 25°C using a Biacore T200 instrument (GE Healthcare) using standard procedures. Briefly, goat anti-mouse IgG Fc antibodies were immobilized directly onto a biosensor chip and antibody samples were injected into the reaction matrix at a flow rate of 5 μl / min. Mouse anti-BCMA IgG test antibodies were injected onto the immobilized surface and captured by the immobilized anti-Fc antibodies. Human and cynomolgus BCMA (ECD) / Fc target polypeptides were then injected over the captured mouse anti-BCMA IgG surface. The association and dissociation rate constants, k on (M -1 s -1 ) and k off (s -1 ) were determined at a continuous flow rate of 30 μl / min, respectively. The rate constants were derived by performing kinetic binding measurements at five different concentrations of the target BCMA (ECD) polypeptide. The equilibrium dissociation constants K D (M) is represented by the formula K D =k off / k on The kinetic constants were calculated using the BIACORE analysis software. The kinetic constants were determined by processing the data and fitting to a 1:1 binding model. The results are shown in Table 7.

[0137] [Table 9]

[0138] Two anti-BCMA antibodies were further developed and analyzed that showed high affinity for both human and cynomolgus BCMA targets. The variable domain sequences of these selected anti-BCMA monoclonal mAb BCMA-002 and mAb BCMA-003 are shown below in Table 8. The complementarity determining regions (CDRs) are underlined according to Kabat numbering.

[0139] [Table 10]

[0140] Example 3.4: Anti-BCMA antibodies exhibited different BCMA blocking activities The ability of monoclonal anti-BMCA antibodies to block BCMA ligand BAFF-stimulated phosphorylation of NFκB in the human myeloma cell line NCI-H929 was assessed using the Phospho-NFκB (Ser536) Cellular Assay Kit (Cisbio; Cat. No. 64 NFBPEG). NCI-H929 human myeloma cells were starved overnight at 37°C in assay medium (RPMI1640, 0.1% BSA). Cells were washed, resuspended and plated at 2 × 10 per well in a 384-well microplate (PerkinElmer, Cat. No. 6008280). 5 The wells were seeded with cells. Antibodies were then added to the wells and incubated with the cells for approximately 10 minutes at 37°C. Anti-BAFF antibody (R&D Systems, Cat. No. BAF124) was used as a positive control and an irrelevant anti-RAC1 monoclonal antibody was used as a negative control. Reference anti-BCMA antibodies TAb1 and TAb2 (clone CA8 from WO2012 / 163805 and clone 83A10 from WO2014 / 122143, respectively) were tested for comparison.

[0141] Recombinant BAFF was then added to each well at a concentration of 5 μg / ml and incubated for 30 minutes. The cells were lysed by adding kit lysis buffer and incubated at room temperature for at least 30 minutes with shaking. The cell lysates were then transferred to a 384-well small volume microplate (PerkinElmer, Cat. No. 6008280). The assay kit reagents were prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions and added to the wells. After a final incubation of 4 hours at room temperature, the plates were read for fluorescence at wavelengths of 665 nm and 620 nm. The percentage of inhibition was calculated and plotted against the antibody concentration using GraphPad Prism 5.0 software. As shown in Figure 6, the selected anti-BCMA antibodies mAb BCMA-002 and mAb BCMA-003 isolated as described above showed better inhibitory activity against BAFF-induced phosphorylation of NF-κB than the negative control (anti-RAC).

[0142] Another reporter gene-based luminescence assay system was also used to characterize antibody blockade of ligand binding activity to BCMA. A stable HEK293F cell line (HEK293F-BCMA-NF-kB-luc clone 1H2) transfected to express BCMA and emit a luciferase signal upon induced phosphorylation of NF-κB was established in-house and used for this luminescence assay. Cells were harvested, washed, and resuspended in assay medium (RPMI1640 with 10% FBS). Cells were then plated at 5 × 10 cells per well in 96-well microplates (Costar, Cat. No. 3903). 4Cells were seeded and incubated with the test antibodies: mAb BCMA-002, mAb BCMA-003, TAb1 (anti-BCMA), TAb2 (anti-BCMA), or irrelevant mouse IgG. BAFF or APRIL (TNFSF13, CD286) as BCMA ligands were added and incubated with the antibody solution for 10 minutes. One-Glo™ Luciferase Assay System (Promega, Cat# E6130) reagents were prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions and added to the wells. The luminescence signal of the plates was read on a Varioskan™ LUX microplate reader (Thermo Scientific). Percentage of inhibition was calculated and plotted against antibody concentration using GraphPad Prism 5.0 software. As shown in Figure 7 (BAFF blockade) and Figure 8 (APRIL blockade), mAb BCMA-002 showed no or weak blocking activity, whereas mAb BCMA-003 showed strong NF-κB signal pathway blocking activity similar to the positive reference antibodies TAb1 and TAb2.

[0143] The binding domains of mAb BCMA-002 and mAb BCMA-003 were then used to generate a bispecific BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein.

[0144] Example 4: Generation of BCMA / CD3 Fabs-in-Tandem Immunoglobulin (FIT-Ig) Example 4.1: Generation of BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig Binding Protein (FIT-Ig) A bispecific Fabs-in-Tandem immunoglobulin (FIT-Ig) binding protein that recognizes both human CD3 and human BCMA was constructed. The FIT-Ig construct was engineered to eliminate the use of synthetic linker sequences between immunoglobulin domains following the general procedures described in International Publication No. WO2015 / 103072.

[0145] The DNA constructs used to generate FIT-Ig antibodies capable of binding to bound CD3 and BCMA encoded the variable domains of parent anti-CD3 and anti-BCMA monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Each FIT-Ig binding protein consists of three polypeptide chains with the following structure: Chain 1 (long chain): VL CD3 -CL-VH BCMA -CH1-hinge-CH2-CH3; Chain 2 (first short chain): VH CD3 - CH1; Chain 3 (second short chain): VL BCMA -CL; Here, VL BCMA is the light chain variable domain of a monoclonal antibody that recognizes BCMA, and VH CD3 is the heavy chain variable domain of a monoclonal antibody that recognizes CD3, and VL CD3 is the light chain variable domain of a monoclonal antibody that recognizes CD3, and VH BCMA is a heavy chain variable domain of a monoclonal antibody that recognizes BCMA, each CL is a light chain constant domain, each CH1 is the first heavy chain constant domain, and hinge-CH2-CH3 is the antibody C-terminal Fc region.

[0146] To construct a long vector, VL CD3 -CL-VH BCMA The cDNAs encoding the segments were de novo synthesized and inserted into the multiple cloning site (MCS) of a vector containing the coding sequence for human CH1-hinge-CH2-CH3. In the resulting vector, the MCS sequence was removed upon homologous recombination to ensure that all domain fragments were in the correct reading frame. Similarly, to construct the first and second short chains, the VH CD3 and VL BCMA The structural genes were synthesized de novo and inserted into the MCS of suitable vectors containing the coding segments for the human CH1 and CL domains, respectively.

[0147] The three plasmids were mixed in a 1:2:1.5 ratio and then co-transfected into HEK293 cells. After 7 days of expression, cell culture supernatants were harvested and purified by Protein A chromatography. The concentration of purified FIT-Ig protein was measured by A280 and homogeneity was analyzed by size exclusion chromatography (SEC).

[0148] To characterize the binding of mAb BCMA-002 and mAb BCMA-003 as novel murine anti-BCMA antibodies in a bispecific FIT-Ig format, the VH polypeptides used for chain 1 and chain 3 polypeptides (supra) were BCMA and VL BCMA The domains were the VH and VL domain sets shown in Table 8 (i.e., for VH, either SEQ ID NO:29 or SEQ ID NO:31, and for VL, either SEQ ID NO:30 or SEQ ID NO:32). VH of chain 1 and chain 2 (supra) CD3 and VL CD3 For domains, the parent anti-CD3 antibody was one of three selected humanized anti-CD3 antibodies: HuEM0006-01-24 antibody (VH=SEQ ID NO:18; VL=SEQ ID NO:25), HuEM0006-01-25 antibody (VH=SEQ ID NO:15; VL=SEQ ID NO:25), or HuEM0006-01-26 antibody (VH=SEQ ID NO:12; VL=SEQ ID NO:25). For the constant domains CH1-hinge-CH2-CH3 and CL of the FIT-Ig structure, human sequences were used, i.e., SEQ ID NO:26 and SEQ ID NO:27. FIT-I expression vectors were constructed with cDNAs encoding these polypeptide domains and used to transfect HEK293 cells. Cultures of each linker-free FIT-Ig construct were grown and FIT-Ig was purified as described above. The six FIT-Ig binding proteins were given the names shown in Table 9 below.

[0149] [Table 11]

[0150] Example 4.2: Generation of BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig Fab Fragment Binding Protein (FIT-Fab) Full-length FIT-Ig protein was digested and purified using Pierce™ Fab Preparation Kit (ThermoFisher Scientific, Cat. No. 44985). In the process, the Fc domain of FIT-Ig protein was removed by enzymatic cleavage using immobilized papain on agarose beads. FIT-Ig Fab fragment (FIT-Fab) was then purified from the flow-through of Protein A chromatography. The concentration of purified FIT-Fab protein was measured by A280 and homogeneity was analyzed by size exclusion chromatography (SEC).

[0151] Example 4.3: FIT-Ig bispecific antibody demonstrated binding to both CD3 and BCMA targets The binding activity of the chimeric bispecific BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig antibody was examined by flow cytometry using a human CD3 / TCR complex transfected CHO cell line (CHOK1 / CD3 / TCR cells) and BCMA-expressing NCI-H929 cells. 5 Cells were seeded in 96-well plates. Cells were centrifuged at 400×g for 5 min and the supernatant was discarded. Then, for each well, 100 μl of serially diluted FIT-Ig or FIT-Fab antibodies were added and mixed with the cells. After 40 min of incubation at 4° C., the plate was washed several times to remove excess antibodies. Then, the secondary antibody (goat anti-hu IgG kappa chain specific) was added and incubated with the cells for 20 min at room temperature. After another centrifugation and washing, the cells were resuspended in FACS buffer for reading on a CytoFLEX flow cytometer. The results were analyzed and plotted using GraphPad Prism 5.0 software. The results are shown in Figures 9 and 10.

[0152] As shown in Figure 9, the binding activity of the bispecific chimeric BCMA / CD3 FIT-Fab antibody with Fab fragments to BCMA showed exactly the same binding curve when they consist of the same BCMA binding domain. As shown in Figure 10, the chimeric BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein maintained a similar binding activity curve as the parent monoclonal humanized CD3 antibody (see Figures 5B, 5C).

[0153] Example 4.4: Chimeric FIT-Fab and FIT-Ig demonstrated redirection of CD3 activation A co-cultured reporter gene assay was used to measure redirection of CD3 activation by BCMA / CD3 bispecific FIT-Ig and FIT-Fab antibodies. Jurkat-NFAT-luc cells initiate a downstream luciferase signal once cell surface CD3 is activated. NCI-H929 cells were used as BCMA-expressing target cells, which upon BCMA binding can crosslink the CD3 / TCR complex on T cells via bispecific BCMA / CD3 antibodies. Jurkat-NFAT-luc and NCI-H929 cells were washed and resuspended in assay medium (RPMI1640 with 10% FBS), respectively. Both cell types were plated at 1:1 ratio in 96-well plates (Costar #3903) at 1 × 10 cells per well. 5 The cells were seeded as 100% PBS. FIT-Ig or FIT-Fab antibodies were added, mixed with the cells, and incubated at 37°C for 4 hours. At the end of the incubation, ONE-Glo™ Luminescence Assay Kit (Promega, Cat. No. E6130) reagents were prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions and added to the wells. The luminescence signal of the plate was read using a Varioskan™ LUX microplate reader (ThermoFisher Scientific). The results are shown in Figures 11 and 12.

[0154] Referring to Figure 11, the FIT-Ig concentration resulting in T cell activation is plotted for FIT-Ig binding proteins generated as described in Example 4.1 using two high affinity anti-BCMA and anti-CD3 antibodies, namely mAb BCMA-003 and HuEM0006-01-24. In this figure, FIT1006-4a is a FIT-Ig with an external CD3-binding Fab binding site and an internal BCMA-binding Fab binding site (see supra; Table 9); FIT1006-4b is a FIT-Ig construct using the same amino acid sequence but with reversed binding domain portions, i.e., an external BCMA-binding Fab binding site and an internal CD3-binding Fab binding site; and FIT1006-4a-Fab was generated from FIT1006-4a by papain digestion (see Example 4.2). The performance of these binding proteins was compared to two negative controls: (i) FIT-Ig ("FIT1002-5a"), which has binding sites reactive with two unrelated antigen targets, and (ii) a humanized IgG monoclonal antibody ("hIgG") reactive with an unrelated antigen. Two anti-CD3 binding proteins were also tested, namely a humanized anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody (HuEM0006-01-24) and a Fab fragment generated therefrom (HuEM0006-01-24-Fab). It can be seen that all bispecific BCMA / CD3 binding proteins resulted in increased T cell activation in the presence of BCMA-expressing target cells compared to the monospecific anti-CD3 binding proteins with BCMA binding activity.

[0155] Referring to FIG. 12, the concentrations of various bispecific BCMA / CD3 FIT-Fab binding proteins that result in T cell activation in the presence of BCMA expressing target cells are plotted for FIT-Fabs prepared from the FIT-Ig binding proteins described in Table 9 above (designated FIT1006-3a-Fab, FIT1006-4a-Fab, FIT1006-5a-Fab, FIT1006-6a-Fab, FIT1006-7a-Fab, FIT1006-8a-Fab). The performance of these FIT-Fabs was compared to a combination of a reference anti-CD3 Fab and mAb BCMA-002, a reference FIT-Fab antibody designated FIT1006-1a-Fab using the anti-CD3 and anti-BCMA binding regions disclosed in WO2016 / 020332, and a negative control FIT-Fab designated FIT1002-5a-Fab, which was prepared using the parent antibody binding sites directed against two unrelated antigen targets.

[0156] These results demonstrated that BCMA / CD3 bispecific antibodies can activate CD3 by cross-linking upon binding to BCMA on the surface of tumor cells. In this assay, not only FIT-Ig binding proteins (Figure 11) but also FIT-Fab binding proteins (Figure 12) showed redirected activation. Furthermore, FIT1006-4a-Fab showed a surprisingly rapid activation polarity at low concentrations.

[0157] Example 4.5: Chimeric BCMA / CD3 FIT-Fab demonstrated redirection of T cell cytotoxicity The tumor cell killing efficacy of the BCMA / CD3 bispecific binding protein was measured in a redirected T cell cytotoxicity assay using the human myeloma cell line NCI-H929 as target cells and human T cells as effector cells. Briefly, cells were harvested, washed, and resuspended in assay medium (RPMI1640 with 10% FBS). NCI-H929 cells were plated in flat-bottom 96-well plates (Corning, Cat. No. 3599) at 5 × 10 per well. 4T cells were purified from human PBMCs using a commercially available PBMC isolation kit (EasySep™, Stemcell Technologies, Cat. No. 17951) and plated at 2 × 10 cells per well. 5 The test antibodies were added to the cells and incubated with the cell mixture for 48 hours at 37°C. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release was measured using the CytoTox 96® Cytotoxicity Assay Kit (Promega, Cat. No. G1780). OD490 readings were obtained according to the manufacturer's instructions. Target cell NCI-H929 maximum lysis (100%) minus minimum lysis (0%) was shown as the denominator for normalization. The percentage of LDH release was plotted against the concentration of bispecific antibodies. As shown in Figure 13, bispecific FIT-Fab with anti-BCMA and anti-CD3 specificities showed redirection of T cell cytotoxicity against NCI-H929 tumor cells, while monospecific humanized anti-CD3 Fab and the combination of anti-CD3 Fab (Fab fragment of HuEM0006-01-24) and anti-BCMA mAb (TAB1) showed no cytotoxic activity.

[0158] Example 4.5: Chimeric FIT-Ig exhibited limited non-targeted CD3 activation redirection in vitro Non-targeted CD3 activation redirection was tested using a Jurkat-NFAT-luc based reporter gene assay in the absence of target cells. Jurkat-NFAT-luc cells were harvested, washed, resuspended in assay medium (RPMI1640 with 10% FBS) and plated at 1 × 10 per well in a 96-well plate (Costar #3903). 5 The plates were seeded with cells. Test antibodies were added, mixed with the cells, and incubated at 37° C. for 4 hours. After incubation, the ONE-Glo™ Luminescent Assay Kit (Promega, Cat. No. E6130) reagents were prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions. The luminescent signal of the plate was read using a Varioskan™ Lux plate reader. The results are shown in FIG. 14.

[0159] This assay was similar to the study performed in Example 4.4 above, except that cells expressing the bispecific binding protein, in this case a co-target for BCMA, were absent. These results show that the bispecific BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig antibodies (FIT1006-4a and FIT1006-4b) and the BCMA / CD3 FIT-Fab designated FIT1006-4a-Fab (all with the same CD3 binding domain as the humanized anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody HuEM0006-01-24) showed much less off-target activation redirection in the absence of BCMA-expressing target cells than the anti-CD3 antibody alone (see FIG. 11).

[0160] Example 5: Generation of a humanized bispecific BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding protein The anti-BCMA monoclonal mAb BCMA-003 showed higher BCMA binding affinity and better redirection of cell killing when used in BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig and FIT-Fab formats, and was therefore selected for humanization and subsequent use in constructing humanized bispecific binding proteins.

[0161] Example 5.1: Humanization of the anti-BCMA antibody mAb BCMA-003 The mAbBCMA-003 variable region genes were used to generate humanized mAbs. In the first step of this method, the amino acid sequences of the VH and VK of mAbBCMA-003 (see Table 8, supra) were compared to available databases of human Ig V gene sequences to find the best overall match of the human germline Ig V gene sequence. Additionally, framework 4 of the VH or VL was compared to the J region database to find the human framework with the greatest homology to the mouse VH and VL regions, respectively. For the light chain, the closest human V gene match was the VK1-39(02) gene, and for the heavy chain, the closest human match was the VH1-03 gene. Next, a humanized variable domain sequence was designed in which the CDR-L1, CDR-L2 and CDR-L3 of the mAb BCMA-003 light chain were grafted into the framework sequence of the VK1-39(02) gene with the JK2 framework 4 sequence following the CDR-L3; and the CDR-H1, CDR-H2 and CDR-H3 sequences of the mAb BCMA-003 VH were grafted into the framework sequence of the VH1-03 gene with the JH6 framework 4 sequence following the CDR-H3. A 3D Fv model of mAb BCMA-003 was then generated and analyzed to determine whether there were framework residues that were less than 4 Å away from the CDR residues and were most likely important to aid loop structure or VH / VL interference. These residues in the humanized sequence should be backmutated to the mouse residue at the same position to retain affinity / activity. The Q1E mutation was always included to eliminate the formation of N-terminal pyroglutamate, if applicable. For the heavy chain, the following potential mutations were identified as desirable backmutations: P30T, I48M, K66R, A67V, L69I, and A71R (Kabat numbering). For the light chain, V58I and R69T were identified as backmutations. According to a hierarchy of the importance of each backmutation as judged by its interaction with the CDRs, the most important backmutations were introduced into the humanized VH sequence in order of priority, followed by other backmutations as sequential designs.Additionally, the DG dipeptide occurring at the C-terminus of CDR-L2 represents a potential aspartic acid isomerization site, which was eliminated in the light chain variants by the following alternative substitutions: D56A, D56E, D56S, D56T, or G57A. The humanized VH and VL engineered constructs are shown in Table 10 (below). (Backmutated framework amino acid residues are double underlined, and the murine CDRs from the original parent antibody are underlined.)

[0162] [Table 12-1] [Table 12-2] [Table 12-3]

[0163] Humanized anti-BCMA VH and VL genes were synthetically generated and then individually cloned into the FIT-Ig vector, which also contained the VH and VL genes from anti-CD3 monoclonal HuEM0006-01-24, as described in Example 4.1. Pairing of the humanized VH and humanized VL generated the humanized BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding proteins listed in Table 11 below. A chimeric antibody with the parental murine VH / VL of mAb BCMA-003 and human constant sequences was also generated as a positive control for ranking the humanized binding proteins. All recombinant FIT-Igs were expressed and purified as described in Example 4.1.

[0164] [Table 13]

[0165] Bispecific FIT-Ig and FIT-Fab binding proteins capable of binding both BCMA and CD3 antigens were constructed in a manner similar to that described in Examples 4.1 and 4.2 supra, using cDNAs encoding the humanized variable domains listed in Table 11 above and the human constant region sequences (SEQ ID NO:26 and SEQ ID NO:27) as shown in Table 3. Since no linkers between the immunoglobulin domains were used, the complete sequences of the FIT-Ig binding proteins can be derived from the sequence information in Tables 11 and 3. For example, the amino acid sequences of the three polypeptide chains of the three exemplary FIT-Ig binding proteins disclosed in Table 11 are shown in Tables 12, 13, and 14 below, with respect to FIT1006-29b(DA), FIT1006-31b(DT), and FIT1006-35b(DT) as FIT-Igs. These FIT-Igs have a BCMA-binding site located at the N-terminus of the assembled chain, with the CD3-binding site located adjacent (N-terminal) to the Fc region and internal to the FIT-Ig structure, C-terminal to the BCMA-binding site. In other words, the domain organization of the component polypeptide chains is: Chain 1 (long chain): VL BCMA -CL-VH CD3 - CH1-hinge-CH2-CH3; Chain 2 (first short chain): VH BCMA - CH1; Chain 3 (second short chain): VL CD3 -CL where VL BCMA is the light chain variable domain of a humanized monoclonal antibody that recognizes BCMA, and VH CD3 is the heavy chain variable domain of a humanized monoclonal antibody that recognizes CD3, and VL CD3 is the light chain variable domain of a humanized monoclonal antibody that recognizes CD3, and VH BCMA is a heavy chain variable domain of a humanized monoclonal antibody that recognizes BCMA, each CL is a light chain constant domain (SEQ ID NO: 27), each CH1 is the first heavy chain constant domain, and CH1-hinge-CH2-CH3 is the C-terminal heavy chain constant domain from CH1 to the end of the Fc region (see SEQ ID NO: 26).

[0166] [Table 14]

[0167] [Table 15]

[0168] [Table 16]

[0169] Example 5.3: Binding kinetics of FIT-Ig to humanized BCMA / CD3 The binding affinity and kinetic constants of the BCMA / CD3 bispecific FIT-Ig antibodies were measured by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) at 25° C. using a Biacore™ T200 instrument (GE Healthcare) using standard procedures. The results are shown in Table 15.

[0170] Briefly, heterodimeric CD3 / Fc antigen or BCMA / Fc antigen following typical amine coupling methods were directly immobilized on a biosensor chip, and then the antibody was injected into the reaction matrix at a flow rate of 5 μl / min, and the binding response was recorded. The association and dissociation rate constants, k, respectively, were calculated. on (M -1 s -1 ) and k off (s -1 ) was determined at a continuous flow rate of 30 μl / min. Rate constants were derived by performing kinetic binding measurements at five different concentrations of human CD3 / Fc protein or human BCMA / Fc protein. The equilibrium dissociation constant K D (M) is represented by the formula K D =k off / k on The affinities of the humanized anti-CD3 / humanized anti-BCMAFIT-Ig antibodies were measured as shown in Table 15 below.

[0171] [Table 17]

[0172] Example 5.4: Humanized bispecific FIT-Ig demonstrated CD3 activation and cytotoxicity redirection The tumor cell killing efficacy of the BCMA / CD3 humanized bispecific FIT-Ig antibody was measured in a redirected T cell cytotoxicity assay using the human myeloma cell line NCI-H929 as target cells and human T cells as effector cells. Briefly, cells were harvested, washed, and resuspended in assay medium (RPMI1640 with 10% FBS). NCI-H929 cells were plated in flat-bottom 96-well plates (Corning #3599) at 5 × 10 per well. 4 T cells were purified from human PBMCs using a commercial kit (Stemcell #17951) and plated at 2 × 10 per well in the same plate. 5 The FIT-Ig binding protein was added to the cells. Then, FIT-Ig binding protein was added and incubated with the cell mixture. After 48 hours of incubation at 37°C, LDH release was measured using an assay kit (Promega #G1780). OD490 readings were obtained according to the manufacturer's instructions. Target cell NCI-H929 maximum lysis (100%) minus minimum lysis (0%) was shown as the denominator for normalization. The percentage of LDH release was plotted against the concentration of bispecific Ab. In this example, humanized FIT-Ig showed a similar redirection of T cell cytotoxicity as the parental chimeric FIT-Ig. The results are shown in Figure 15. These results showed that humanized BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig according to the invention was able to redirect T cell cytotoxicity against NCI-H929 tumor cells in co-culture. Referring to Figures 16 and 17, the binding of two BCMA / CD3 bispecific FIT-Ig binding proteins according to the invention to BCMA-expressing and CD3-expressing target cells is confirmed.

[0173] Two alternative configurations of exemplary BCMA / CD3 FIT-Ig binding proteins, in which the external binding site is a CD3 Fab binding site of tandemly arranged Fab regions and the internal binding site is a BCMA Fab binding site, were prepared and designated FIT1006-31a(DT) and FIT1006-35a(DT). The formulas of the polypeptide chains of these two FIT-Igs are: Chain 1 (long chain): VL CD3 -CL-VH BCMA - CH1-hinge-CH2-CH3; Chain 2 (first short chain): VH CD3 - CH1; Chain 3 (second short chain): VL BCMA -CL The amino acid sequences of the polypeptide chains of FIT1006-31a(DT) and FIT1006-35a(DT) are shown below.

[0174] [Table 18]

[0175] [Table 19]

[0176] The binding activity of these two alternative configurations to BCMA-expressing and CD3-expressing target cells is shown in Figure 18 and Figure 19, respectively. Comparing the two configurations for each target, the corresponding binding domains positioned distally of the Fc show relatively higher binding activity than the same binding domains positioned proximally of the Fc, indicating the specific influence of the configuration on binding. Nevertheless, these results confirm that both configurations have the desired target binding activity to both BCMA and CD3.

[0177] Example 6 Treatment with BCMAxCD3 FIT-Ig reduces NCI-H929 tumor volume in human PBMC-engrafted NPSG mice Antitumor efficacy was evaluated in NPSG mice, an immunodeficient strain lacking T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells. NCI-H929 cells (5 × 10 6) was injected subcutaneously into the right dorsal flank of NPSG mice. On the same day, mice were administered a single intravenous dose of 5 × 10 6 Human PBMCs were administered. On day 11, tumor size (70-140 mm 3 Animals were randomized based on the tumor size and treatment was initiated on the same day. Tumor growth was monitored by caliper measurements. The study was terminated on day 25, when tumor size exceeded 3000 mm 3 Mice were euthanized when tumor growth exceeded 100%. Mice were treated with 6 mg / kg FIT1006-31b ​​(DT) or FIT1006-35b (DT) or vehicle by intraperitoneal (ip) injection once a week (QW x 3) for 3 weeks. As shown in Figure 20, mice in the FIT-Ig treatment group showed significant tumor growth inhibition compared to the vehicle group. Notably, tumors were completely eradicated in the FIT1006-35b (DT) treatment group.

[0178] Example 7 BCMAxCD3 FIT-Ig depletes B cell populations in cynomolgus monkeys and displays limited cytokine release characteristics Cynomolgus B cells have been reported to show higher BCMA expression than humans (Seckinger, A. et al., (2017). Target Expression, Generation, Preclinical Activity, and Pharmacokinetics of the BCMA-T Cell Bispecific Antibody EM801 for Multiple Myeloma Treatment. Cancer Cell, 31(3), 396-410). A pilot non-GLP toxicology and pharmacology study was conducted in cynomolgus monkeys to evaluate the ability of BCMA×CD3 FIT-Ig to deplete B cell populations in these animals. The study had three groups, one male and one female monkey, with weights matched between groups; group 1 received vehicle, group 2 received a single injection of 0.5 mg / kg FIT1006-31b(DT), and group 3 received a single injection of 0.5 mg / kg FIT1006-35b(DT), all administered by iv injection on day 1. Blood samples were collected from a subcutaneous vein in the forelimb or hindlimb 2 days prior to dosing (day -1, baseline), 2, 4, 6 and 24 hours after dosing on day 1, and on days 8 and 15. Blood samples were analyzed by FACS for B and T cell markers, and the relative percentage change in each population was determined by comparing it to baseline levels on day -1. Serum samples were also analyzed for cytokine levels (INFγ, IL-2, IL-6 and TNFα) using a commercially available cytometric bead array (CBA) kit.

[0179] Figure 21 shows greater than 50% depletion of circulating B cells caused by administration of BCMAxCD3 FIT-Ig from the first post-dose time point (2 hours post-dose) to the last time point (day 15). Transient B cell depletion was also seen in the vehicle group by the second and third time points (2 hours and 4 hours on day 1), which may be related to the blood collection schedule. However, the B cell population in the vehicle group showed a rapid recovery that reached a plateau by 6 hours post-dose.

[0180] As shown in Figure 22, circulating T cell levels in the FIT-Ig treatment group showed a transient loss that recovered to the levels of the vehicle group on day 8 and was maintained until the end of the study. This transient T cell loss was thought to be due to T cell activation and redistribution upon treatment.

[0181] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the essential characteristics of the invention as set forth above. Therefore, the above embodiments are to be considered as illustrative rather than limiting of the invention described herein. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A set of CDRs such as: 【Table 1】 An anti-BCMA antibody or antigen-binding portion thereof, comprising a set of six CDRs, CDR-H1, CDR-H2, CDR-H3, CDR-L1, CDR-L2, and CDR-L3, selected from the group consisting of:

2. The following VH / VL pairs: 【Table 2】 The anti-BCMA antibody or antigen-binding portion thereof of claim 1, comprising a VH domain and a VL domain having an amino acid sequence selected from:

3. (i) a VH domain having a sequence selected from SEQ ID NO:29, SEQ ID NO:34, or SEQ ID NO:36, and a CH1-hinge-CH2-CH3 human constant IgG1 having the sequence of SEQ ID NO:26; and (ii) a VL domain having a sequence selected from SEQ ID NO: 30, SEQ ID NO: 43, or SEQ ID NO: 48 and a CLK having the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 27 The anti-BCMA antibody or antigen-binding portion thereof of claim 1 .

4. A pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one anti-BCMA antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof according to claim 1 and a pharma- ceutically acceptable carrier.

5. Use of an anti-BCMA antibody or antigen-binding portion thereof according to any one of claims 1 to 3, or a pharmaceutical composition according to claim 4, for the manufacture of a medicament for treating a disease or disorder in which CD3-mediated and / or BCMA-mediated activity is detrimental.

6. 6. The use according to claim 5, wherein the disease is cancer, optionally selected from multiple myeloma, melanoma (e.g. metastatic malignant melanoma), renal cancer (e.g. clear cell carcinoma), prostate cancer (e.g. hormone refractory prostate adenocarcinoma), pancreatic adenocarcinoma, breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer (e.g. non-small cell lung cancer), esophageal cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, liver cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, thyroid cancer, glioblastoma, glioma, leukemia, lymphoma, and primary bone cancer (e.g. osteosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, malignant fibrous histiocytoma, or chondrosarcoma).

7. A set of CDRs such as: 【Table 3】 CDR-H1-1, CDR-H2-1, CDR-H3-1, CDR-L1-1, CDR-L2-1 and CDR-L3-1 selected from the group consisting of: 【Table 4】 CDR-H1-2, CDR-H2-2, CDR-H3-2, CDR-L1-2, CDR-L2-2 and CDR-L3-2 selected from the group An anti-BCMA and anti-CD3 bispecific antibody or antigen-binding portion thereof comprising a set of 12 CDRs:

8. The following VH / VL pairs: 【Table 5】 and 【Table 6】 An anti-BCMA and anti-CD3 bispecific antibody or antigen-binding portion thereof, comprising a VH domain and a VL domain having an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of:

9. (i) a first VH domain having a sequence selected from SEQ ID NO:29, SEQ ID NO:34, or SEQ ID NO:36, and a CH1-hinge-CH2-CH3 human constant IgG1 having the sequence of SEQ ID NO:26; (ii) a first VL domain having a sequence selected from SEQ ID NO:30, SEQ ID NO:43, or SEQ ID NO:48, and a CLK having a sequence of SEQ ID NO:27; (iii) a CH1-hinge-CH2-CH3 human constant IgG1 having the sequence of SEQ ID NO:8, SEQ ID NO:11, SEQ ID NO:12, SEQ ID NO:15, SEQ ID NO:17, or SEQ ID NO:18, and SEQ ID NO:26; and (iv) a second VL domain having a sequence selected from SEQ ID NO: 9 or SEQ ID NO: 25 and a CLK domain having the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 27 9. The anti-BCMA and anti-CD3 bispecific antibody or antigen-binding portion thereof of claim 7 or 8, comprising:

10. An anti-BCMA and anti-CD3 bispecific antibody or antigen-binding portion thereof according to claim 7 or 8, comprising three polypeptides, the first polypeptide having the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 80, the second polypeptide having the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 81, and the third polypeptide having the sequence of SEQ ID NO:

82.

11. 10. A pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one anti-BCMA and anti-CD3 bispecific antibody or antigen-binding portion thereof according to claim 7 and a pharma- ceutically acceptable carrier.

12. Use of an anti-BCMA and anti-CD3 bispecific antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof described in claim 7 or 8, or a pharmaceutical composition described in claim 11, for the preparation of a medicament for treating a disease or disorder in which CD3-mediated and / or BCMA-mediated activity is deleterious.

13. 13. The use according to claim 12, wherein the disease is cancer, optionally selected from multiple myeloma, melanoma (e.g. metastatic malignant melanoma), kidney cancer (e.g. clear cell carcinoma), prostate cancer (e.g. hormone refractory prostate adenocarcinoma), pancreatic adenocarcinoma, breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer (e.g. non-small cell lung cancer), esophageal cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, liver cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, thyroid cancer, glioblastoma, glioma, leukemia, lymphoma, and primary bone cancer (e.g. osteosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, malignant fibrous histiocytoma, or chondrosarcoma).

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