Bifunctional molecules for lysosomal targeting and related compositions and methods

Abstract

Provided is a bifunctional molecule, which comprises a first portion that specifically binds to a cell surface molecule or an extracellular molecule, and a second portion that specifically binds to a lysosomal targeting molecule.The bifunctional molecule is used, for example, for the targeted degradation of cell surface and extracellular molecules (e.g., proteins) via the endosomal / lysosomal pathway.Compositions and kits that include the bifunctional molecule, as well as methods for using the bifunctional molecule, are also provided.Methods for producing the bifunctional molecule are also provided.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 782,193, filed December 19, 2018, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 932,347, filed November 7, 2019, which are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0002] Statement of government support This invention was made with Government support under Contracts CA227942, GM059907, and GM123636 awarded by the National Institutes of Health. The Government has certain rights in the invention. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Provided is a bifunctional molecule, comprising a first portion that specifically binds to a cell surface molecule or an extracellular molecule, and a second portion that specifically binds to a lysosomal targeting molecule.The bifunctional molecule is used, for example, for targeted degradation of cell surface and extracellular molecules (e.g., proteins) via the endosomal / lysosomal pathway.Compositions and kits that include the bifunctional molecule, as well as methods of using the bifunctional molecule, are also provided.Methods of making the bifunctional molecule are also provided. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0004] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a bifunctional molecule and its use, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] A scheme for synthesizing mannose-6-phosphate N-carboxyanhydride, according to one embodiment. This route allows access to mannose-6-phosphate glycans, for example linked to serine residues, for use as monomers in N-carboxyanhydride polymerization. [Diagram 3]

[0023] Figure 1 shows a scheme for the synthesis of mannose-6-phosphonate N-carboxyanhydrides according to one embodiment. This route allows access to mannose-6-phosphonate glycans, for example linked to serine residues, for use as monomers in N-carboxyanhydride polymerization. The phosphonate group is a hydrolytically stable variant of the phosphate group that has previously been shown to have superior serum stability compared to mannose-6-phosphate glycans. [Figure 4] A scheme for synthesizing mannose-6-carboxylate N-carboxyanhydride according to one embodiment. This route allows access to mannose-6-carboxylate glycans, for example linked to serine residues, for use as monomers in N-carboxyanhydride polymerization. The carboxylate group is a hydrolytically stable variant of the phosphate group that has previously been shown to have superior serum stability compared to mannose-6-phosphate glycans. Mannose-6-carboxylate glycans have previously shown a relative binding affinity of 0.3 for cation-independent M6PR (CIM6PR) compared to mannose-6-phosphate glycans. The ability to chemically tune receptor-ligand interactions allows for greater control over biological applications and reduces off-target binding events. [Diagram 5] A scheme for synthesizing mannose-6-acrylate N-carboxyanhydride according to one embodiment. This route allows access to mannose-6-acrylate glycans, for example linked to serine residues, for use as monomers in N-carboxyanhydride polymerization. The acrylate group is a hydrolytically stable variant of the phosphate group that has previously been shown to have superior serum stability compared to mannose-6-phosphate glycans. Mannose-6-acrylate glycans have previously shown a relative binding affinity of 0.7 for CIM6PR compared to mannose-6-phosphate glycans. The ability to chemically tune receptor-ligand interactions allows for greater control over biological applications and reduces off-target binding events. [Figure 6]1 is a scheme for the synthesis of glucose-6-phosphonate N-carboxyanhydrides according to one embodiment. This route allows access to glucose-6-phosphonate glycans, for example linked to serine residues, for use as monomers in N-carboxyanhydride polymerization. Glucose-6-phosphonate residues have significantly weaker binding affinity to CIM6PR compared to mannose-containing glycans. [Figure 7] A scheme for synthesizing mannose-6-phosphonate isothiocyanate according to one embodiment. This route allows access to mannose-6-phosphonate isothiocyanate (M6Pn-ITC), which can be directly conjugated, for example, to lysine residues in proteins. Conjugation of multiple M6Pn-ITCs to multiple amino acids (e.g., lysines) within a given protein allows multivalent display of M6Pn glycans. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a general NCA polymerization scheme for synthesizing scaffolds for displaying M6P ligands, according to one embodiment. Copolymers with other amino acid-derived NCAs are similarly easily synthesized, providing access to a multitude of polymers with various structures and compositions bearing multiple M6P ligand residues. These materials are then deprotected to provide the complete polypeptide / glycan structure. [Figure 9] 1 is a scheme for solid-phase peptide synthesis of mannose-6-phosphonate peptide oligomers, according to one embodiment. As shown, scaffolds for displaying M6P ligands can also be synthesized using solid-phase peptide synthesis, starting from amino acids such as M6P, M6Pn, etc. This synthetic route allows for greater control of polypeptide length and composition compared to the NCA polymerization route, and does not require special synthesis conditions compared to NCA polymerization-derived materials. [Figure 10]Schematic of an experiment (top) and fluorescence imaging results (bottom) showing that biotin-capped functionalized M6Pn polymers can mediate the translocation of extracellular neutravidin-647 (NA 647, a protein that strongly binds biotin) from the extracellular space to lysosomes for degradation. Colocalization of both the protein and the lysosomal staining dye is observed. [Figure 11] Data demonstrating that several cell lines exhibit NA647 uptake in an M6Pn polymer-dependent manner. Given these results, it is predicted that any cell line that possesses M6PR (e.g., CIM6PR) will enable shuttling of proteins to lysosomes in this manner and is not limited to the cell lines tested in this study. [Figure 12] Data demonstrating that non-denaturing gel polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) can be used to monitor the functionalization of proteins (including antibodies) with M6P polymers. In this example, the protein of interest was first labeled with a reactive alkyne (e.g., bicyclo[6.1.0]nonyne, BCN), followed by functionalization by incubation with an azide-containing polymer (bio-orthogonal copper-free strain-promoted click reaction). [Figure 13] Schematic (top) and fluorescence imaging data (bottom) showing that poly(M6Pn)-labeled antibodies can shuttle their binding partners to lysosomes. In this example, mouse IgG-488 was incubated with an anti-mouse IgG antibody bearing a poly(M6Pn) tag, resulting in colocalization of both the protein and the lysosomal staining dye (merge). [Figure 14] Schematic (top) and data (bottom) showing that poly(M6Pn)-labeled antibodies can shuttle their binding partners to intracellular compartments. In this example, recombinant human apoE4 was incubated with a mouse-derived anti-human apoE4 antibody, an anti-mouse IgG antibody, or an anti-mouse antibody carrying a poly(M6Pn) tag. Significantly more uptake is observed with the M6Pn-containing secondary antibody. [Figure 15]Data demonstrating that poly(M6Pn)-labeled antibodies can shuttle their binding partners for degradation. In this example, EGFR degradation was assessed by incubating cells with cetuximab bearing an M6Pn tag. For all cell lines tested, loss of total EGFR is observed compared to cetuximab or cetuximab bearing the pseudopolymer (GalNAc). EGF is a positive control for EGFR degradation. Lane 1: control. Lane 2: EGF (100 ng / mL, 1 hour, + control). Lane 3: cetuximab. Lane 4: cetuximab-GalNAc conjugate. Lane 5: cetuximab-M6P conjugate (long). Lane 6: cetuximab-M6P conjugate (short). Percentage of control was calculated by densitometry. [Figure 16] Data showing that poly(M6Pn)-labeled antibody fragments can shuttle their binding partners to lysosomes. In this example, EGFR degradation was assessed by incubating cells with a cetuximab-derived Fab portion bearing an M6Pn tag. Loss of total EGFR is observed compared to cetuximab Fab alone or cetuximab Fab(GalNAc) with a pseudopolymer. [Figure 17] Data demonstrating that poly(M6Pn)-tagged antibodies can shuttle their binding partners for degradation. In this example, degradation of CD71 (transferrin receptor) was assessed by incubating cells with a primary mouse-derived antibody against CD71, an anti-mouse IgG antibody, or an anti-mouse antibody with a poly(M6Pn) tag. The system containing the M6P tag results in significantly more degradation. [Figure 18] Data demonstrating that poly(M6Pn)-labeled antibody fragments can shuttle their binding partners for degradation. In this example, PDL1 degradation was assessed by incubating cells with anti-PDL1 antibody or anti-PDL1 antibody bearing an M6P tag. Degradation is only observed with M6P-labeled anti-PDL1 antibody. [Figure 19]Schematic of targeted extracellular proteolysis using bifunctional molecules, bispecific antibodies, in this example against CIM6PR and a given target, which are released from the target at the reduced pH of the endosome. This strategy allows the given bispecific antibody to cycle with the receptor, delivering cargo and target sequentially to the lysosome without degradation of the antibody. [Figure 20] 1 is a schematic diagram of a lysosomal targeting molecule to which the second portion of a bifunctional molecule may bind, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, the lysosomal targeting molecule is the asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR), which is expressed substantially exclusively on liver cells (e.g., hepatocytes). As shown on the right, the ASGPR constitutively recycles between the plasma membrane and endosomes, thereby carrying extracellular glycoproteins into the cell for degradation in lysosomes. On the bottom left, an exemplary bifunctional molecule is shown, which includes a first portion that is an antibody (e.g., an antibody that binds to a molecule expressed on the surface of a liver cell or present in the extracellular space of a liver cell) and a second portion that includes a multivalent ASGPR ligand for binding to the ASGPR. In this example, the second portion includes a polymer of N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc), specifically, the poly(GalNAc-co-Ala) polymer shown. [Figure 21] Schematic and data showing the transfer of a targeting molecule into HEPG2 (hepatocellular carcinoma) cells using a bifunctional molecule comprising a first moiety (in this example, an antibody) that binds to the targeting molecule and a second moiety that comprises a GalNAc-containing polymer as shown in FIG. [Figure 22] Schematic and data demonstrating efficient cellular uptake via ASGPR in HUH7 (hepatocellular carcinoma) cells. [Diagram 23]Schematic and data showing efficient degradation of EGFR in HEP3B (hepatocellular carcinoma) cells using a bifunctional molecule comprising cetuximab (first moiety) conjugated to a second moiety comprising a GalNAc-containing polymer as shown in Figure 20. Also shown is EGFR degradation data for a conjugate comprising cetuximab (first moiety) conjugated to a second moiety comprising an M6PR ligand. [Figure 24] Data showing efficient degradation of EGFR in HEPG2 cells using a bifunctional molecule comprising cetuximab (first moiety) conjugated to a second moiety comprising a GalNAc-containing polymer as shown in Figure 20. Also shown is EGFR degradation data for a conjugate comprising cetuximab (first moiety) conjugated to a second moiety comprising an M6PR ligand. [Diagram 25] Data from a time course study assessing EGFR degradation over time in HEP3B cells. [Figure 26] Immunofluorescence data showing that treatment of HEP3B cells with the cetuximab conjugates described above results in the majority of membrane EGFR being degraded, but residual EGFR remains inside the cells. [Figure 27] Western blot data showing the extent of HER2 degradation in HUH7 and HEPG2 cells in the presence of trastuzumab alone or trastuzumab conjugated to a GalNAc-containing polymer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0005] Provided is a bifunctional molecule, comprising a first portion that specifically binds to a cell surface molecule or an extracellular molecule, and a second portion that specifically binds to a lysosomal targeting molecule.The bifunctional molecule is used, for example, for targeted degradation of cell surface and extracellular molecules (e.g., proteins) via the endosomal / lysosomal pathway.Compositions and kits that include the bifunctional molecule, as well as methods of using the bifunctional molecule, are also provided.Methods of making the bifunctional molecule are also provided.

[0006] Before the bifunctional molecules, compositions, kits and methods of the present disclosure are described in more detail, it should be understood that the bifunctional molecules, compositions, kits and methods are not limited to the specific embodiments described and can, of course, vary. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the bifunctional molecules, compositions, kits and methods is limited only by the appended claims.

[0007] When a range of values ​​is provided, it is understood that each intervening value between the upper and lower limit of that range, to one-tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, and any other stated or intervening value within that stated range, is encompassed within the bifunctional molecules, compositions, kits, and methods. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included within the smaller ranges, which are also encompassed within the bifunctional molecules, compositions, kits, and methods, except for any specifically excluded limits within the stated range. When a stated range includes one or both limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included within the bifunctional molecules, compositions, kits, and methods.

[0008] Certain ranges are presented herein with the term "about" preceding the numerical values. The term "about" is used herein to provide literal support to the exact number it precedes, as well as to numbers that are close to or approximately the number it precedes. In determining whether a number is close to or approximately a specific recited number, the close or approximate but unrecited number may be a number that is substantially equivalent to the specifically recited number in the context in which it is presented.

[0009] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the bifunctional molecules, compositions, kits and methods belong. Any bifunctional molecules, compositions, kits and methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used to carry out or test the bifunctional molecules, compositions, kits and methods, but representative exemplary bifunctional molecules, compositions, kits and methods are described here.

[0010] All publications and patents cited herein are incorporated by reference as if each individual publication or patent was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference, and are incorporated by reference herein to disclose and describe the related methods and / or materials for which the publications are cited. The citation of a publication is for its disclosure prior to the filing date, and should not be construed as an admission that the bifunctional molecules, compositions, kits and methods are not entitled to antedate such publication, since the publication years provided may differ from the actual publication years, which may need to be independently confirmed.

[0011] It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It should be further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude optional elements. As such, this statement is intended to serve as a literal basis for the use of exclusive terminology such as "exclusively," "only," and the like, or the use of a "negative" limitation in connection with the recitation of claim elements.

[0012] It is recognized that certain features of the bifunctional molecules, compositions, kits and methods described for clarity in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the bifunctional molecules, compositions, kits and methods described for brevity in the context of a single embodiment may be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination. All combinations of the embodiments are specifically encompassed by the present disclosure and disclosed herein as if each and every combination were individually and explicitly disclosed to the extent that such combinations encompass the operable processes and / or compositions. Furthermore, all subcombinations listed in the embodiments describing such variables are also specifically encompassed by the bifunctional molecules, compositions, kits and methods of the present invention and disclosed herein as if each such subcombination were individually and explicitly disclosed.

[0013] As will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure, each of the individual embodiments described and illustrated herein has individual components and features which may be readily separated from or combined with the features of any of the other several embodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of the methods of the present disclosure. Any recited method may be carried out in the order of events recited or in any other order which is logically possible.

[0014] bifunctional molecule The present disclosure provides bifunctional molecules that include a first portion that specifically binds to a cell surface or extracellular molecule and a second portion that specifically binds to a lysosomal targeting molecule. Specific non-limiting embodiments of the bifunctional molecules are described herein.

[0015] As summarized above, the bifunctional molecule of the present disclosure comprises a first portion that specifically binds to a cell surface molecule or an extracellular molecule. In some embodiments, the first portion specifically binds to a cell surface molecule. By "cell surface molecule" is meant a molecule that is bound to a cell membrane, for example, by having a domain that is inserted into or spans the cell membrane (e.g., a cell membrane tethering domain or a transmembrane domain). The cell surface molecule can be any cell surface molecule for which targeted degradation via the endosomal / lysosomal pathway is desired. In some aspects, the cell surface molecule is a cell surface receptor. Cell surface receptors of interest include, but are not limited to, stem cell receptors, immune cell receptors, growth factor receptors, cytokine receptors, hormone receptors, receptor tyrosine kinases, receptors of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family (e.g., HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2)), receptors of the fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) family, receptors of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) family, receptors of the platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) family, receptors of the rearranged during transfection (RET) receptor family, receptors of the Eph receptor family, receptors of the discoidin domain receptor (DDR) family, and mucin proteins (e.g., MUC1). In some embodiments, the cell surface molecule is CD71 (transferrin receptor). In certain embodiments, the cell surface receptor is an immune cell receptor selected from T cell receptors, B cell receptors, natural killer (NK) cell receptors, macrophage receptors, monocyte receptors, neutrophil receptors, dendritic cell receptors, mast cell receptors, basophil receptors, and eosinophil receptors.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first part specifically binds to cell surface molecules that mediate their effects not through specific molecular interactions (and thus are not susceptible to blocking) but through bulk biophysical or aggregative effects.Non-limiting examples of such cell surface molecules are mucins.Examples of mucins include, but are not limited to, MUC1, MUC16, MUC2, MUC5 AC, MUC4, CD43, CD45, GPIb, etc.

[0017] In some embodiments, when the first moiety specifically binds to a cell surface molecule, the cell surface molecule is present on a cancer cell. By "cancer cell" is meant a cell that exhibits a neoplastic cell phenotype that can be characterized, for example, by one or more of aberrant cell growth, aberrant cell proliferation, loss of density-dependent growth inhibition, anchorage-independent growth capacity, the ability to promote tumor growth and / or development in immunocompromised non-human animal models, and / or any suitable indicator of cell transformation. "Cancer cell" may be used interchangeably herein with "tumor cell", "malignant cell" or "cancerous cell" and includes cancer cells of solid tumors, semi-solid tumors, hematological malignancies (e.g., leukemia cells, lymphoma cells, myeloma cells, etc.), primary tumors, metastatic tumors, etc. In some embodiments, the cell surface molecule present on a cancer cell is a tumor-associated antigen or a tumor-specific antigen.

[0018] In certain aspects, when the first portion specifically binds to a cell surface molecule, the cell surface molecule is present on an immune cell. In some embodiments, the cell surface molecule is present on an immune cell selected from T cells, B cells, natural killer (NK) cells, macrophages, monocytes, neutrophils, dendritic cells, mast cells, basophils and eosinophils. In certain aspects, the cell surface molecule present on an immune cell is an inhibitory immune receptor. As used herein, an "inhibitory immune receptor" is a receptor present on an immune cell that negatively regulates immune response. Examples of inhibitory immune receptors that may be inhibited according to the methods of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, inhibitory immune receptors of the Ig superfamily, including CD200R, CD300a (IRp60, mouse MAIR-I), CD300f (IREM-1), CEACAM1 (CD66a), FcyRIIb, ILT-2 (LIR-1, LILRB1, CD85j), ILT-3 (LIR-5, CD85k, LILRB4), ILT-4 (LIR-2, LILRB2), ILT-5 (LIR-3, LILRB3, mouse PIR-B), LAIR-1, PECAM-1 (CD31), PILR-α (FDF03), SIRL-1, and SIRP-α. Further examples of inhibitory immune receptors that can be inhibited according to the methods of the present disclosure include sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectin (Siglec) receptors, such as Siglec7, Siglec9, etc. Additional examples of inhibitory immune receptors that can be inhibited according to the methods of the present disclosure include C-type lectins, including but not limited to CLEC4A (DCIR), Ly49Q, and MICL. Details regarding inhibitory immune receptors can be found, for example, in Steevels et al. (2011) Eur. J. Immunol. 41 (3): 575-587. In some embodiments, the cell surface molecule present on the immune cell is a ligand of an inhibitory immune receptor. In certain embodiments, the cell surface molecule present on the immune cell is an immune checkpoint molecule. Non-limiting examples of immune checkpoint molecules that the first portion can specifically bind include PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA4, TIM3, LAG3, TIGIT, and members of the B7 family.

[0019] As summarized above, the bifunctional molecules of the present disclosure include a first portion that specifically binds to a cell surface molecule or an extracellular molecule. In some embodiments, the first portion specifically binds to an extracellular molecule. By "extracellular molecule" is meant a soluble molecule that is on the outside of the cell membrane of the cell in the vicinity of the soluble molecule. The extracellular molecule can be any extracellular molecule for which targeted degradation via the endosomal / lysosomal pathway is desired. In some embodiments, the extracellular molecule is a ligand for a cell surface receptor. Cell surface receptor ligands of interest include, but are not limited to, growth factors (e.g., epidermal growth factor (EGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), etc.), cytokines (e.g., interleukins, interferons, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) (including any particular subtype of such cytokines)), hormones, and the like. In certain embodiments, the first portion specifically binds to apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4).

[0020] In some embodiments, the first portion specifically binds to an extracellular molecule, and the extracellular molecule is an antibody, e.g., an antibody that specifically binds to a cell surface molecule or a different extracellular molecule. In some embodiments, the antibody is an autoantibody. Non-limiting examples of autoantibodies include rheumatoid factor (RF), antinuclear antibodies (ANA), antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA), antidouble-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA), anticentromere antibodies (ACA), antihistone antibodies, cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (CCP), soluble nuclear antigen antibodies (e.g., anti-SS-A (Ro) and anti-SS-B (La), anti-RNP, anti-Jo-1, anti-Sm, Scl-70), cardiolipin antibodies, beta 2 glycoprotein 1 antibodies, antiphospholipid ... These include lipid antibodies (APA), lupus anticoagulant (LA), diabetes-associated autoantibodies, anti-tissue transglutaminase (anti-tTG), anti-gliadin antibodies (AGA), intrinsic factor antibodies, parietal cell antibodies, thyroid autoantibodies (e.g., anti-TPO, TSH receptor antibodies), smooth muscle antibodies (SMA), anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA), hepatic microsomal type 1 antibodies (anti-LKM-1), anti-glomerular basement membrane (GBM), and acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibodies.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first portion specifically binds to an extracellular molecule that is a secreted protein that accumulates in disease (e.g., alpha-synuclein), a cholesterol carrier (e.g., ApoB), an infectious disease toxin (e.g., AB toxin, ESAT-6), an infectious particle (e.g., whole virus, whole bacteria, etc.), a clotting factor (e.g., Factor IX), the target of any FDA approved antibody that binds to an extracellular molecule (e.g., TNF alpha), any chemokine or cytokine (e.g., mediators of sepsis or chronic inflammation such as IL-1), a proteinaceous hormone (e.g., insulin, ACTH, etc.), a proteinaceous mediator of mood disorders, a proteinaceous mediator of energy homeostasis (e.g., leptin, ghrelin, etc.), a proteinaceous allergen present in the bloodstream or an antibody against such an allergen (e.g., in the case of peanut allergy), a proteinaceous toxin (e.g., snake venom hyaluronidase, etc.), etc.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the first portion specifically binds to a cell surface or extracellular molecule, and the cell surface or extracellular molecule is a mutant protein. In some embodiments, the bifunctional molecule causes the shuttling of the mutant protein to lysosomes and promotes its loading onto major histocompatibility complex (MHC) (e.g., MHCI or MHCII), thereby promoting the recognition of the mutant protein by the immune system. In this regard, the bifunctional molecule finds use in generating antibodies specific to mutated undesirable proteins (e.g., KIT).

[0023] "Specifically binds" means that the first and second moieties bind to their respective targets with, for example, about 10 5 M -1 or higher affinity or K a (i.e., the equilibrium association constant for a particular binding interaction, in units of 1 / M). In certain embodiments, the first and second moieties bind to their respective targets at about 10 6 M -1 , 107 M -1 , 10 8 M -1 , 10 9 M -1 , 10 10 M -1 , 10 11 M -1 , 10 12 M -1 , or 10 13 M -1 More than K a "High affinity" binding is at least 10 7 M -1 , at least 10 8 M -1 , at least 10 9 M -1 , at least 10 10 M -1 , at least 10 11 M -1 , at least 10 12 M -1 , at least 10 13 M -1 , or more than K a Alternatively, affinity is the equilibrium dissociation constant (K D ) (e.g., 10 -5 M~10 -13 In certain embodiments, specific binding can be defined as binding between the first and second moieties to their respective targets with a binding affinity of about 10 -5 M or less, about 10 -6 M or less, about 10 -7 M or less, about 10 -8 M or less, or about 10 -9 M, 10 -10 M, 10 -11 M or 10 -12 K below M DThe binding affinity of the first and second moieties to their respective targets can be readily determined using conventional techniques, such as competitive ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), equilibrium dialysis, surface plasmon resonance (SPR) techniques (e.g., BIAcore 2000 instrument using general procedures outlined by the manufacturer), radioimmunoassays, and the like.

[0024] The first part can be any type of part that can bind to a cell surface molecule or extracellular molecule that is targeted for degradation via the endosomal / lysosomal pathway.In certain embodiments, the first part is selected from a polypeptide, a ligand (e.g., a ligand for a cell surface receptor, in which case the cell surface receptor is targeted for degradation), an aptamer, a nanoparticle, and a small molecule.The second part can be any type of part that can bind to a lysosomal targeting molecule.In certain embodiments, the second part is selected from a polypeptide, a ligand (e.g., a ligand for a lysosomal targeting molecule), an aptamer, a nanoparticle, and a small molecule.

[0025] In some embodiments, when a portion of a bifunctional molecule is a polypeptide, the portion is an antibody. The terms "antibody" and "immunoglobulin" refer to antibodies or immunoglobulins of any isotype (e.g., IgG (e.g., IgG1, IgG2, IgG3 or IgG4), IgE, IgD, IgA, IgM, etc.), whole antibodies (e.g., antibodies comprised of a tetramer composed of two dimers of a heavy and a light polypeptide chain); single chain antibodies; antibody fragments (e.g., whole antibodies or single chain antibody fragments) that maintain specific binding to a cell surface or extracellular molecule (in the case of a first portion) or a lysosomal targeting molecule (in the case of a second portion) (e.g., fragments of whole antibodies or single chain antibodies) (including but not limited to Fv, single chain Fv (scFv), Fab, F(ab')). 2 , Fab' (scFv') 2, diabodies, and nanobodies); chimeric antibodies; monoclonal antibodies; fully human antibodies; humanized antibodies (e.g., humanized whole antibodies, humanized antibody fragments, etc.); and fusion proteins or fragments thereof comprising an antigen-binding portion of an antibody and a non-antibody protein. The antibody can be detectably labeled, for example, with an in vivo imaging agent. The antibody can be further conjugated to other moieties, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG). Fusion to an antibody Fc region (or a fragment thereof), conjugation to PEG, etc., can find use, for example, to increase the serum half-life of the antibody upon administration to a subject.

[0026] "Small molecule" refers to a compound having a molecular weight of 1000 atomic mass units (amu) or less. In some embodiments, a small molecule is 750 amu or less, 500 amu or less, 400 amu or less, 300 amu or less, or 200 amu or less. In certain aspects, a small molecule is not made up of repeating molecular units such as those found in a polymer.

[0027] As summarized above, the second part specifically binds to a lysosomal targeting molecule. As used herein, a "lysosomal targeting molecule" is a cell surface molecule that, when bound by the second part of a bifunctional molecule, shuttles the bifunctional molecule and the cell surface or extracellular molecule bound by its first part to the lysosome in the cell. Upon delivery and internalization to the lysosome, the bifunctional molecule and the cell surface or extracellular molecule are degraded by lysosomal enzymes, such as acid hydrolases. In this way, the bifunctional molecule targets the cell surface or extracellular molecule bound by its first part for degradation, and this targeting is used in a variety of in vitro and in vivo applications, including research and clinical applications.

[0028] The second part can bind to any suitable lysosomal targeting molecule. Non-limiting examples of lysosomal targeting molecules include mannose-6-phosphate receptor (M6PR), sortilin, folate receptor, ASPGR, IFITM3, molecules of the endosomal / lysosomal pathway (e.g., LIMP-1, LIMP-2), and the like.

[0029] In some embodiments, the lysosomal targeting molecule that the second moiety binds to is the mannose-6-phosphate receptor (M6PR). M6PR is present throughout the tissues of the body and plays a role in transporting mannose-6-phosphate (M6P) tagged cargo (e.g., acid hydrolases) from the Golgi compartment and extracellular space to lysosomes. Details regarding M6PR can be found, for example, in Gary-Bobo et al. (2007) Curr. Med. Chem. 14: 2945-2953; Das et al. (2016) ACS Macro Lett. 5: 809-813, and elsewhere. Examples of M6PR that the second moiety can bind to include the cation-dependent human M6PR provided as UniProtKB-P 20645 and the cation-independent M6PR provided as UniProtKB-P11717 (also called insulin-like growth factor 2 receptor (IGF2R)). The cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor is a multifunctional protein that binds to ligands such as mannose 6-phosphate (M6P)-carrying protein, IGF-II, retinoic acid, and plasminogen at the cell surface. Its main function is to bind and transport the M6P enzyme to lysosomes, but it can also regulate the activity of various extracellular M6P glycoproteins, such as the latent TGFβ precursor, urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor, granzyme B, growth factors, and herpes viruses.

[0030] In certain embodiments, when the lysosomal targeting molecule is M6PR, the second moiety is an antibody that specifically binds to M6PR. Anti-M6PR antibodies are available, including MOB-1772z recombinant anti-human M6PR antibody (Creative Biolabs), EPR6599, 2G11, MEM-238, EPR6599 and EPR7691 anti-M6PR antibodies (Abcam), and the like.

[0031] In some embodiments, when the lysosomal targeting molecule is M6PR, the second portion comprises one or more M6PR ligands. In certain aspects, the one or more M6PR ligands comprise one or more mannose-6-phosphate (M6P), where M6P has the following structure: [ka]

[0032] Alternatively or additionally, one or more M6PR ligands include one or more M6P analogues. By "M6P analogue" is meant a molecule that is not M6P but binds to the M6P recognition site of M6PR. Some M6P analogues with phosphonate, carboxylate, sulfate, sulfonate or malonate groups show higher affinity and stronger stability in human serum than M6P itself. Some structural features have been shown to be important for the binding of M6P to M6PR. For example, the hydroxyl group at the 2-position of the pyranose ring is axial, and strong binding to M6PR is observed. The distance between the negative charge and the pyranose ring also plays a role in M6P recognition by M6PR. Suitable analogs should generally be isosteric to M6P to efficiently bind to M6PR; a single negative charge is sufficient to allow binding to M6PR, but the phosphorus atom is not required to ensure recognition, and the presence of two negative charges (as in malonate and phosphonate isostere analogs of M6P) has been shown to be beneficial for binding to M6PR. In some embodiments, when the one or more M6PR ligands include one or more M6PR analogs, the one or more M6PR analogs include one or more phosphonate M6P analogs (M6Pn), malonate M6P analogs, carboxylate M6P analogs, sulfonate M6P analogs, acrylate M6P analogs, and the like. In some embodiments, the one or more M6PR analogs include one or more phosphonate M6P analogs (M6Pn) having the following structure: + is any counter cation or hydrogen atom): [ka]

[0033] In some embodiments, one or more M6PR analogs have the following structure: + is any counter cation or hydrogen atom): [ka]

[0034] In some embodiments, one or more M6PR analogs have the following structure: + is any counter cation or hydrogen atom): [ka]

[0035] Details regarding the recognition of M6P and M6P analogs by M6PR, as well as M6P analog analogs that may be utilized in the bifunctional molecules of the present disclosure, can be found, for example, in Gary-Bobo et al. ((2007) Curr. Med. Chem. 14:2945-2953, and Jeanjean et al. (2008) Bioorg Med Chem Lett. 18(23):6240-3, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties for all purposes.

[0036] In certain aspects, when the second portion comprises one or more M6PR ligands, the second portion comprises 1 to 1000 M6PR ligands, e.g., 1 to 750, 1 to 500, 1 to 250, 1 to 100, 1 to 75, 1 to 50, 1 to 40, 1 to 30, 1 to 20, 1 to 10 (e.g., 1 to 6), or 1 to 5 M6PR ligands. In some embodiments, when the second portion comprises one or more M6PR ligands, the second portion comprises 10 to 50, 15 to 45, 20 to 40, or 25 to 35 M6PR ligands. In certain embodiments, when the second portion comprises one or more M6PR ligands, the second portion comprises 5 or more, 10 or more, 20 or more, 30 or more, 40 or more, 50 or more, 75 or more, 100 or more, 250 or more, 500 or more, 750 or more, or 1000 or more M6PR ligands.

[0037] In some embodiments, when the second moiety comprises one or more M6PR ligands, the second moiety comprises a polymer scaffold that displays (e.g., is functionalized with) one or more M6PR ligands. An example of such a bifunctional molecule and its use is shown diagrammatically in FIG. 1. In this example, the bifunctional molecule comprises an antibody as a first moiety. The antibody can bind either a target extracellular molecule (shown on the left) or a target cell surface molecule (shown on the right). The antibody is conjugated to a polymer scaffold that displays an M6P ligand (labeled "6P" in FIG. 1). When the displayed M6P ligand binds to cell surface M6PR, the M6PR shuttles the bifunctional molecule (and the bound Target molecule) to the lysosome for degradation.

[0038] When the second moiety comprises a polymer scaffold displaying one or more M6PR ligands, the polymer scaffold can be a glycopolymer comprising one or more M6PR ligands. By way of example, the glycopolymer can be a glycoprotein comprising one or more amino acids (e.g., natural and / or unnatural amino acids) functionalized with one or more M6PR ligands. When the glycopolymer is a glycoprotein, the glycoprotein can be an N-carboxyanhydride (NCA) derived glycoprotein. Ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of NCA monomers is a well-studied route leading to synthetic polypeptides and polypeptide hybrids with a wide range of useful physical properties. In some embodiments, the polymerization is metal catalyzed. Approaches suitable for large-scale synthesis of α-amino acid-N-carboxyanhydrides are described, for example, in Semple et al. (2016) Synthetic Communications 47(1):53-61.

[0039] An exemplary approach for synthesizing mannose-6-phosphate N-carboxyanhydride is shown generally in FIG. 2. An exemplary approach for synthesizing mannose-6-phosphonate N-carboxyanhydride is shown generally in FIG. 3. An exemplary approach for synthesizing mannose-6-carboxylate N-carboxyanhydride is shown generally in FIG. 4. An exemplary approach for synthesizing mannose-6-acrylate N-carboxyanhydride is shown generally in FIG. 5. An exemplary approach for synthesizing glucose-6-phosphonate N-carboxyanhydride is shown generally in FIG. 6. An exemplary approach for synthesizing mannose-6-phosphonate isothiocyanate is shown generally in FIG. 7.

[0040] In certain embodiments, the bifunctional molecule of the present disclosure comprises a second portion that specifically binds to a lysosomal targeting molecule expressed on the surface of liver cells, such as hepatocytes (including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells). A non-limiting example of a lysosomal targeting molecule expressed on the surface of liver cells to which the second portion can bind is the asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR), a hepatic receptor that mediates the removal of glycoconjugates from the blood. This receptor comprises two proteins, asialoglycoprotein receptors 1 and 2 (ASGR1 (UniProtKB-P07306-human) and ASGR2 (UniProtKB-P07307-human)), encoded by genes ASGR1 and ASGR2. ASGPR binds to asialoglycoproteins, which are glycoproteins with sialic acid removed to expose galactose and galactosamine residues. The receptor located on liver cells removes the target glycoprotein from circulation. ASGPR is highly expressed on the surface of liver cells, some human cancer cell lines, and liver cancer.

[0041] When the lysosomal targeting molecule is ASGPR, suitable second moieties include, but are not limited to, anti-ASGPR antibodies, ASGPR ligands, and the like. According to some embodiments, such second moieties include one or more ASGPR ligands. Suitable ASGPR ligands include, but are not limited to, one or more N-acetylgalactosamines (GalNAc), one or more galactoses, one or more glucoses, and any combination thereof. In certain embodiments, such second moieties include 1-1000 ASGPR ligands, such as 1-750, 1-500, 1-250, 1-100, 1-75, 1-50, 1-40, 1-30, 1-20, 1-10 (e.g., 1-6), or 1-5 ASGPR ligands. In some embodiments, when the second portion comprises one or more ASGPR ligands, the second portion comprises 10 to 50, 15 to 45, 20 to 40, or 25 to 35 ASGPR ligands. In certain embodiments, when the second portion comprises one or more ASGPR ligands, the second portion comprises 3 or more, 5 or more, 10 or more, 20 or more, 30 or more, 40 or more, 50 or more, 75 or more, 100 or more, 250 or more, 500 or more, 750 or more, or 1000 or more ASGPR ligands.

[0042] According to some embodiments, when the lysosome targeting molecule is ASGPR and the second part comprises one or more ASGPR ligands, the second part comprises a scaffold comprising one or more ASGPR ligands.In one non-limiting example, the second part comprises a polymer comprising GalNAc.In certain embodiments, such a second part comprises poly(GalNAc-co-Ala), the structure of which is provided below and in Figure 20. [ka]

[0043] In certain embodiments, when the lysosome targeting molecule is ASGPR and the second part comprises one or more ASGPR ligands, the second part comprises a dendrimer scaffold comprising one (monovalent), two (bivalent), three (trivalent) or four or more ASGPR ligands, such as ASGPR ligands independently selected from GalNAc, galactose and glucose.For example, according to some embodiments, the second part comprises a monovalent, bivalent or trivalent GalNAc-containing dendrimer scaffold.Non-limiting examples of trivalent GalNAc-containing dendrimer scaffolds that can be used are as follows (referred to herein as Tri-GalNAc dendrimers): [ka]

[0044] According to some embodiments, the second moiety comprises a monovalent, divalent or trivalent galactose-containing dendrimer scaffold. A non-limiting example of a trivalent galactose-containing dendrimer scaffold that can be used is the following (referred to herein as Tri-Gal dendrimer): [ka]

[0045] According to some embodiments, the first portion specifically binds to a cell surface molecule expressed on liver cells (including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells) when the second portion specifically binds to a lysosomal targeting molecule, such as ASGPR, expressed on the surface of liver cells. Non-limiting examples of such cell surface molecules include growth factor receptors. Growth factor receptors of interest include, but are not limited to, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), C-Met, insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R), fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4), HER2, and platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR).

[0046] In certain embodiments, bifunctional molecules are used to degrade growth factors on the surface of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells (e.g., in vivo when administered to an individual with HCC to treat HCC), where the bifunctional molecule comprises a first portion that specifically binds to EGFR, C-Met, IGF1R, FGFR4 or HER2, and a second portion that specifically binds to ASGPR (e.g., the second portion can comprise a scaffold (e.g., a polymer scaffold) that comprises an ASGPR ligand such as GalNAc, galactose and / or glucose).

[0047] According to some embodiments, bifunctional molecules are used to degrade cell surface molecules (e.g., growth factors) expressed on fibrotic liver cells (e.g., when administered in vivo to an individual with liver fibrosis), where the bifunctional molecule comprises a first portion that specifically binds to a cell surface or extracellular protein that promotes fibrosis (e.g., PDGFR) and a second portion that specifically binds to ASGPR (e.g., the second portion can comprise a scaffold (e.g., a polymer scaffold) that comprises one or more ASGPR ligands, such as GalNAc, galactose and / or glucose).

[0048] In certain embodiments, the bifunctional molecule enhances the degradation of the cell surface or extracellular molecule relative to the degradation of the cell surface or extracellular molecule in the presence of only the first moiety. According to some embodiments, the bifunctional molecule enhances the degradation of the cell surface or extracellular molecule relative to the degradation of the cell surface or extracellular molecule in the presence of only the first moiety or the second moiety. In this context, "enhancing degradation" means that under the same conditions, the cell surface or extracellular molecule is degraded in the presence of the bifunctional molecule and not in the presence of the first moiety alone or in the presence of the first moiety or the second moiety alone, or that under the same conditions, the cell surface or extracellular molecule is degraded to a greater extent in the presence of the bifunctional molecule than in the presence of the first moiety alone or in the presence of the first moiety or the second moiety alone. If a cell surface or extracellular molecule is degraded in the presence of the bifunctional molecule to a greater extent than it is degraded in the presence of the first moiety alone or in the presence of the first moiety or the second moiety alone under the same conditions, the degradation can be 1.2-fold or more, 1.4-fold or more, 1.6-fold or more, 1.8-fold or more, 2-fold or more, 2.5-fold or more, 3-fold or more, 3.5-fold or more, 4-fold or more, 4.5-fold or more, 5-fold or more, 5.5-fold or more, 6-fold or more, 6.5-fold or more, 7-fold or more, 7.5-fold or more, 8-fold or more, 8.5-fold or more, 9-fold or more, 9.5-fold or more, or 10-fold or more in the presence of the bifunctional molecule.

[0049] A non-limiting example of a bifunctional molecule of the present disclosure that enhances degradation of a cell surface molecule compared to degradation of the cell surface molecule in the presence of only the first moiety is provided in the Experimental section below in Example 4. An example of a bifunctional molecule that does not enhance degradation of a cell surface molecule compared to degradation of the cell surface molecule in the presence of the first moiety alone is provided in Example 5.

[0050] One of skill in the art can readily determine whether a bifunctional molecule of interest enhances degradation of a cell surface or extracellular molecule compared to degradation of the cell surface or extracellular molecule in the presence of the first moiety alone, or in the presence of the first moiety or the second moiety alone. Non-limiting examples of suitable approaches for readily making such a determination are provided in the experimental section below.

[0051] The bifunctional molecules of the present disclosure may be in any suitable format. In some embodiments, the first portion is a polypeptide and the second portion is a polypeptide, and the bifunctional molecule is a fusion protein comprising the first portion fused to the second portion. The first portion may be directly fused to the second portion. In other aspects, the first portion may be indirectly fused to the second portion, such as when a spacer domain is disposed between the first portion and the second portion. When the bifunctional molecule is a fusion protein, a nucleic acid encoding the bifunctional molecule is also provided by the present disclosure. An expression vector comprising such a nucleic acid is also provided, as is a cell (e.g., a host cell) comprising any of the nucleic acids and / or expression vectors of the present disclosure. Methods of producing such cells are also provided, including, for example, introducing any of the nucleic acids and / or expression vectors of the present disclosure into a cell using a suitable cell transfection protocol and transfection reagent. When the bifunctional molecule is a fusion protein, a method of making the bifunctional molecule is also provided by the present disclosure. Such methods may include culturing a cell of the present disclosure under conditions in which the bifunctional molecule is expressed in the cell.

[0052] Other suitable formats of the bifunctional molecules of the present disclosure include conjugates. Thus, in some embodiments, the bifunctional molecules of the present disclosure include a first moiety conjugated to a second moiety. In certain aspects, the first moiety is an antibody and the second moiety specifically binds to M6PR. By way of example, the first moiety may be an antibody and the second moiety may include a polymer scaffold that includes / displays one or more M6PR ligands (e.g., one or more M6P and / or M6P analogs), where the polymer scaffold is conjugated to the antibody. In some such aspects, the second moiety is a glycoprotein that includes one or more amino acids functionalized with one or more M6PR ligands. Methods of making such conjugates are also provided, the methods comprising conjugating the first moiety to the second moiety. A non-limiting example of such a method, where the first moiety is an antibody and the second moiety is a glycopolymer as described herein, is shown diagrammatically in FIG. 12. In some embodiments, the method includes site-specifically conjugating the first moiety to the second moiety. For example, when the first moiety comprises a polypeptide (e.g., an antibody), conjugating may include site-specifically conjugating the second moiety to a preselected amino acid of the first moiety. In certain aspects, the preselected amino acid is at the N-terminus or C-terminus of the first moiety. In other aspects, the preselected amino acid is internal to the first moiety, i.e., between the N-terminal amino acid and the C-terminal amino acid of the first moiety. In some embodiments, the preselected amino acid is an unnatural amino acid. Non-limiting examples of unnatural amino acids that may be provided on the first moiety and / or the second moiety to facilitate conjugation include those having a functional group selected from azide, alkyne, alkene, aminooxy, hydrazine, aldehyde (e.g., formylglycine, e.g., Catalent Pharma Solutions' SMARTag™ technology), nitrone, nitrile oxide, cyclopropene, norbornene, isocyanide, aryl halide, and boronic acid functional groups.Unnatural amino acids that can be incorporated and selected to provide desired functional groups are known and described, for example, in Maza et al. (2015) Bioconjug Chem. 26(9):1884-9; Patterson et al. (2014) ACS Chem. Biol. 9:592-605; Adumeau et al. (2016) Mol. Imaging Biol. (2):153-65, and others.

[0053] In some embodiments, conjugating the first moiety to the second moiety includes conjugating the second moiety to a glycan on the first moiety, or vice versa. Such methods may include modifying one or more glycans of the first moiety to provide a functional group to which the second moiety can be attached. In one non-limiting example, the N-glycan of the first moiety (e.g., an antibody) can be modified to an aldehyde group by periodate oxidation and then functionalized with a second moiety, such as aminooxy M6Pn.

[0054] When the bifunctional molecule is a conjugate, one or more linkers can be used to facilitate the conjugation of the first part to the second part.Non-limiting examples of such linkers include ester linkers, amide linkers, maleimide or maleimide-based linkers, valine-citrulline linkers, hydrazone linkers, N-succinimidyl-4-(2-pyridyldithio)butyrate (SPDB) linkers, succinimidyl-4-(N-maleimidomethyl)cyclohexane-1-carboxylate (SMCC) linkers, vinylsulfone-based linkers, linkers that include polyethylene glycol (PEG), such as but not limited to tetraethylene glycol, linkers that include propanoic acid, linkers that include caproic acid, and linkers that include any combination thereof. In certain aspects, the linker is a chemically unstable linker, such as an acid-cleavable linker that is stable at neutral pH (bloodstream pH 7.3-7.5) but undergoes hydrolysis upon internalization into the weakly acidic endosomes (pH 5.0-6.5) and lysosomes (pH 4.5-5.0) of target cells (e.g., cancer cells). Chemically unstable linkers include, but are not limited to, hydrazone-based linkers, oxime-based linkers, carbonate-based linkers, ester-based linkers, and the like. According to certain embodiments, the linker is an enzyme-labile linker, e.g., an enzyme-labile linker that is stable in the bloodstream but undergoes enzymatic cleavage by, e.g., lysosomal proteases (e.g., cathepsin or plasmin) in the lysosomes of target cells (e.g., cancer cells) upon internalization into the target cells. Enzyme-labile linkers include, but are not limited to, peptide bond-containing linkers, such as dipeptide-based linkers, such as valine-citrulline linkers, such as maleimidocaproyl-valine-citrulline-p-aminobenzyl (MC-vc-PAB) linkers, valyl-alanyl-para-aminobenzyloxy (Val-Ala-PAB) linkers, etc. Chemically labile linkers, enzymatically labile linkers and non-cleavable linkers are known and are described in detail, for example, in Ducry&Stump (2010) Bioconjugate Chem.21:5-13.

[0055] Numerous strategies are available for conjugating the first and second moieties via a linker. For example, the first moiety may be derivatized by covalently attaching a linker to the first moiety, where the linker has a functional group capable of reacting with the "chemical handle" of the second moiety. Also by way of example, the second moiety may be derivatized by covalently attaching a linker to the second moiety, where the linker has a functional group capable of reacting with the "chemical handle" of the first moiety. The functional group on the linker may vary and may be selected based on compatibility with the chemical handle of the first or second moiety. According to one embodiment, the chemical handle is provided by incorporating a non-natural amino acid bearing a chemical handle into the first or second moiety. In some embodiments, the conjugation of the first and second moieties is by alkyne-azide cycloaddition.

[0056] Other suitable formats of the bifunctional molecules of the present disclosure include bispecific antibodies. For example, the bifunctional molecules of the present disclosure can be bispecific antibodies in which a first portion (e.g., a first Fab arm) specifically binds to a cell surface or extracellular molecule and a second portion (e.g., a second Fab arm) specifically binds to a lysosomal targeting molecule (e.g., M6PR). A schematic diagram of such a bispecific antibody is shown in FIG. 19. In some embodiments, the bispecific antibody leaves the target at the reduced pH of the endosome. Such a strategy allows a given bispecific antibody to cycle with the receptor and sequentially deliver cargo and target to the lysosome without antibody degradation. Approaches for making bispecific antibodies are known. For example, when the bifunctional molecule is a bispecific antibody, the bispecific antibody can be made using a "knobs-into-holes" (KIH) approach. The KIH technique involves engineering the CH3 domain to create either a "knob" or a "hole" on each heavy chain to promote heterodimerization. Strategies for the design and production of KIHs are known, and include those described, for example, in Xu et al. (2015) MAbs 7(1):231-42; Carter et al. (2001) J. Immunol. Methods 248(1-2):7-15; Ridgway et al. (1996) Protein Eng. 9(7):617-2; and Merchant et al. (1998) Nat. Biotechnol. 16(7):677-81.

[0057] composition As summarized above, the present disclosure provides compositions that may include any of the bifunctional molecules of the present disclosure, including any of the bifunctional molecules described in the bifunctional molecules section above, which are incorporated herein but will not be repeated for the sake of brevity.

[0058] In certain embodiments, the composition comprises a bifunctional molecule of the present disclosure present in a liquid medium. The liquid medium may be an aqueous liquid medium such as water, a buffer solution, etc. One or more additives, such as salts (e.g., NaCl, MgCl 2 , KCl, MgSO 4 ), buffers (Tris buffer, N-(2-hydroxyethyl)piperazine-N'-(2-ethanesulfonic acid) (HEPES), 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid (MES), 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid sodium salt (MES), 3-(N-morpholino)propanesulfonic acid (MOPS), N-tris[hydroxymethyl]methyl-3-aminopropanesulfonic acid (TAPS), and the like), protease inhibitors, glycerol, and the like may be present in such compositions.

[0059] Pharmaceutical compositions are also provided. The pharmaceutical composition comprises any of the bifunctional molecules of the present disclosure and a pharma- ceutically acceptable carrier. The pharmaceutical composition generally comprises a therapeutically effective amount of the bifunctional molecule. By "therapeutically effective amount" is meant an amount sufficient to produce a desired result, such as a beneficial or desired therapeutic (including preventative) result, such as a reduction in cell proliferation in an individual having a cell proliferation disorder (e.g., cancer) associated with a cell surface or extracellular molecule to which the first portion of the bifunctional molecule specifically binds. An effective amount can be administered in one or more doses.

[0060] The bifunctional molecules of the present disclosure can be incorporated into various formulations for therapeutic administration.More specifically, the bifunctional molecules can be formulated into pharmaceutical compositions by combining with suitable pharmaceutically acceptable excipients or diluents, and can be formulated into solid, semi-solid, or gaseous forms such as tablets, capsules, powders, granules, etc.

[0061] Formulations of bifunctional molecules of the present disclosure suitable for administration to an individual (e.g., suitable for human administration) are generally sterile and may be free of detectable pyrogens or other contaminants that would contraindicate administration to an individual according to a selected route of administration.

[0062] In pharmaceutical dosage forms, the bifunctional molecules can be administered alone or in appropriate association and combination with other pharma- ceutically active compounds. The following methods and excipients are merely examples and are in no way limiting.

[0063] For oral formulations, the bifunctional molecules can be used alone or in combination with suitable additives to produce tablets, powders, granules or capsules using conventional additives such as lactose, mannitol, corn starch or potato starch; binders such as microcrystalline cellulose, cellulose derivatives, gum arabic, corn starch or gelatin; disintegrants such as corn starch, potato starch or sodium carboxymethylcellulose; lubricants such as magnesium stearate or talc; diluents, buffers, wetting agents, preservatives and flavorings, as desired.

[0064] The bifunctional molecules can be formulated into injectable preparations by dissolving, suspending or emulsifying in aqueous or non-aqueous solvents such as vegetable oils or other similar oils, synthetic fatty acid glycerides, esters of higher fatty acids, or propylene glycol, and, if desired, with conventional additives such as solubilizers, isotonicity agents, suspending agents, emulsifiers, stabilizers and preservatives.

[0065] The pharmaceutical composition may be in liquid form, lyophilized form, or liquid form reconstituted from lyophilized form, and lyophilized formulation should be reconstituted with sterile solution before administration.The standard procedure for reconstituting lyophilized composition is to add back a certain amount of pure water (typically equivalent to the volume removed during lyophilization), but a solution containing antibacterial agent may be used to produce pharmaceutical composition for parenteral administration.

[0066] Aqueous formulations of bifunctional molecules can be prepared in pH buffer solutions, for example at a pH in the range of about 4.0 to about 8.0, for example about 4.5 to about 7.5, for example about 5.0 to about 7.0. Examples of buffers suitable for a pH in this range include phosphate buffers, histidine buffers, citrate buffers, succinate buffers, acetate buffers and other organic acid buffers. The buffer concentration can be, for example, about 1 mM to about 100 mM, or about 5 mM to about 50 mM, depending on the buffer and the desired tonicity of the formulation.

[0067] How to use As summarized above, methods of using the bifunctional molecules of the present disclosure are also provided, in some embodiments, the methods include using any of the bifunctional molecules described in the Bifunctional Molecules section above, which are incorporated herein but will not be repeated for the sake of brevity.

[0068] In certain embodiments, a method for degrading cell surface or extracellular molecules is provided. Such methods include contacting cell surface or extracellular molecules with any of the bifunctional molecules of the present disclosure under conditions in which the lysosomal targeting molecule shuttles the cell surface or extracellular molecule to lysosomes for degradation. Such methods are used in a variety of applications. In certain embodiments, the methods are performed in vitro (e.g., in tubes, cell culture plates or wells, etc.), for example, for testing and / or research applications. In other embodiments, the methods are performed in vivo (e.g., in an individual to whom the bifunctional molecule is administered), for example, for clinical / therapeutic applications.

[0069] In some embodiments, a method is provided that includes administering a therapeutically effective amount of any bifunctional molecule or any pharmaceutical composition of the present disclosure to an individual in need thereof. A variety of individuals can be treated according to the method. Generally, such subjects are "mammals" or "mammals", which terms are used broadly to describe organisms within the class Mammalia, including Carnivora (e.g., dogs and cats), Rodentia (e.g., mice, guinea pigs and rats), and Primates (e.g., humans, chimpanzees, and monkeys). In some embodiments, the individual is a human.

[0070] In some embodiments, an effective amount of a bifunctional molecule (or a pharmaceutical composition comprising the same), when administered in one or more doses alone (e.g., in monotherapy) or in combination with one or more additional therapeutic agents (e.g., in combination therapy), is an amount effective to reduce symptoms of a disease condition (e.g., cancer, neurodegenerative disorder, etc.) in an individual by at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90% or more compared to the symptoms in the individual in the absence of treatment with the bifunctional molecule or pharmaceutical composition.

[0071] In certain embodiments, an individual has or is suspected of having a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by amyloid-β deposits in the brain (e.g., Alzheimer's disease) or tau protein deposits in the brain (e.g., a tauopathy), a first portion of the bifunctional molecule specifically binds to apoE4 (e.g., apoE4 expressed from the ε4 allele of the APOE4 gene), and targeted degradation of apoE4 treats the neurodegenerative disorder in the individual.

[0072] In some embodiments, a method is provided that comprises administering a therapeutically effective amount of any bifunctional molecule or any pharmaceutical composition of the present disclosure to an individual with cancer. According to such a method, the first part of the bifunctional molecule specifically binds to a cell surface molecule or extracellular molecule that at least contributes to the cancer of the individual, and the targeted degradation of the cell surface molecule or extracellular molecule using the bifunctional molecule treats the cancer of the individual. In certain aspects, the first part specifically binds to a molecule selected from a cell surface molecule on a cancer cell, a ligand of a cell surface molecule on a cancer cell, a cell surface molecule on an immune cell, a ligand of a cell surface molecule on an immune cell, an inhibitory immunoreceptor, and a ligand of an inhibitory immunoreceptor.

[0073] In certain embodiments, the individual has a cancer characterized by the presence of a solid tumor, a semi-solid tumor, a primary tumor, a metastatic tumor, etc. In some embodiments, the individual has a cancer selected from breast cancer, melanoma, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, glioma, bladder cancer, endometrial cancer, renal cancer, leukemia (e.g., acute myeloid leukemia (AML)), liver cancer (e.g., hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), e.g., primary or recurrent HCC), non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, pancreatic cancer, thyroid cancer, any combination thereof, and any subtype thereof.

[0074] In some embodiments, the individual has a particular liver disease, including but not limited to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and the method is for treating the disease. For example, in certain embodiments, the individual has HCC, and the first moiety binds to a cell surface molecule on the individual's HCC cells and the second moiety binds to ASGPR. In certain embodiments, the first moiety binds to a tumor-promoting protein on the individual's HCC cells. In some embodiments, the tumor-promoting protein is a growth factor on the HCC cells. Non-limiting examples of such growth factors include EGFR, C-Met, IGF1R, and FGFR4. Such bifunctional molecules may include any of the second moieties that bind to ASGPR, as described elsewhere herein.

[0075] In certain embodiments, the individual has liver fibrosis, and the method is for treating liver fibrosis. For example, according to some embodiments, the individual has liver fibrosis, and the first portion binds to a cell surface molecule on the individual's fibrotic liver cells, and the second portion binds to ASGPR. In certain embodiments, the first portion binds to a fibrosis-promoting protein on the individual's fibrotic liver cells. According to some embodiments, the fibrosis-promoting protein is a growth factor on the fibrotic liver cells. A non-limiting example of such a growth factor is PDGFR. Such a bifunctional molecule may include any of the second portions that bind to ASGPR, as described elsewhere herein.

[0076] In any method using the bifunctional molecule of the present disclosure, in certain embodiments, the bifunctional molecule enhances the degradation of cell surface or extracellular molecules relative to the degradation of cell surface or extracellular molecules in the presence of only the first moiety.Similarly, in any method using the bifunctional molecule of the present disclosure, according to some embodiments, the bifunctional molecule enhances the degradation of cell surface or extracellular molecules relative to the degradation of cell surface or extracellular molecules in the presence of only the first moiety or the second moiety.Details regarding such enhancement of degradation are provided in the bifunctional molecule section above, which is incorporated herein but will not be repeated for brevity.

[0077] "Treat," "treating," or "treatment" refers to at least an amelioration of symptoms associated with an individual's medical condition (e.g., a cell proliferative disorder, e.g., cancer), where amelioration is used broadly to refer to at least a decrease in a parameter associated with the medical condition being treated, e.g., the magnitude of the symptoms. Thus, treatment also includes situations in which a medical condition, or at least symptoms associated therewith, are completely suppressed, e.g., prevented from occurring, or halted, e.g., discontinued, such that an individual is no longer afflicted by the medical condition, or at least the symptoms characterizing the medical condition.

[0078] In certain aspects, the present disclosure provides a method for enhancing antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), comprising administering a bifunctional molecule or pharmaceutical composition of the present disclosure to an individual in need of ADCC. In some embodiments, the first portion of the bifunctional molecule specifically binds to an inhibitory immune receptor or its ligand. In certain aspects, the first portion of the bifunctional molecule specifically binds to an immune checkpoint molecule, such as PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA4, TIM3, LAG3, TIGIT, or a member of the B7 family.

[0079] The bifunctional molecule or pharmaceutical composition may be administered to an individual using any available method and route suitable for drug delivery, including in vivo and ex vivo methods, and systemic and local routes of administration. Conventional and pharmacologic acceptable routes of administration include intranasal, intramuscular, intratracheal, subcutaneous, intradermal, topical application, intraocular, intravenous, intraarterial, intranasal, oral, and other enteral and parenteral routes of administration. In some aspects, administration is by parenteral administration. Routes of administration can be combined or adjusted as needed, depending on the bifunctional molecule and / or the desired effect. The bifunctional molecule or pharmaceutical composition can be administered in a single dose or multiple doses. In some embodiments, the bifunctional molecule or pharmaceutical composition is administered intravenously. In some embodiments, the bifunctional molecule or pharmaceutical composition is administered by injection, for example, for systemic delivery (e.g., intravenous infusion) or to a localized site.

[0080] kit As summarized above, the present disclosure also provides kits. In some embodiments, the subject kits include any of the bifunctional molecules of the present disclosure (including any of the bifunctional molecules described in the bifunctional molecules section above, which are incorporated herein but will not be repeated for brevity) and instructions for using the bifunctional molecule to degrade a cell surface or extracellular molecule to which the first portion specifically binds. In certain aspects, the instructions are for degrading cell surface or extracellular molecules in vitro, e.g., for testing and / or examination purposes. In other aspects, the instructions are for degrading cell surface or extracellular molecules in vivo, e.g., for clinical / therapeutic use. For example, kits are provided that include any of the bifunctional molecules or pharmaceutical compositions of the present disclosure and instructions for administering the bifunctional molecule or pharmaceutical composition to an individual in need thereof. Such kits may include a quantity of the bifunctional molecule or pharmaceutical composition present in a unit dose, e.g., an ampoule, or a multi-dose format. Thus, in certain embodiments, the kit may include one or more (eg, two or more) unit doses (eg, ampoules) of the bifunctional molecule or pharmaceutical composition.

[0081] The term "unit dose" as used herein refers to a physically discrete unit suitable as a single administration for human and animal subjects, each unit containing a predetermined amount of the composition calculated to be sufficient to produce a desired effect. The amount of the unit dose depends on various factors, such as the particular bifunctional molecule used, the effect to be achieved, and the pharmacodynamics associated with the bifunctional molecule in an individual. In yet other embodiments, the kit may include a single multiple dose of the bifunctional molecule or pharmaceutical composition.

[0082] In other aspects, kits are provided that include any of the glycopolymers of the present disclosure (including any of the glycopolymers described in the bifunctional molecule section above, which are incorporated herein but will not be repeated for brevity) and instructions for conjugating the glycopolymer to a molecule of interest. Such kits may further include a reagent for conjugating the glycopolymer to a molecule of interest. In some embodiments, the molecule of interest is a polypeptide. Non-limiting examples of such polypeptides include antibodies. In certain aspects, the molecule of interest specifically binds to a cell surface or extracellular molecule, including any of the cell surface or extracellular molecules described in the bifunctional molecule section above, which are incorporated herein but will not be repeated for brevity.

[0083] The components of the kit may be in separate containers or the components may be in a single container.

[0084] The instructions included in the kit may be recorded on a suitable recording medium. For example, the instructions may be printed on a substrate such as paper or plastic. As such, the instructions may be present in the kit as a package insert or on the label of the container of the kit or a component thereof (i.e., associated with the packaging or inner packaging). In other embodiments, the instructions are present as an electronic storage data file present on a suitable computer-readable storage medium, such as a portable flash drive, DVD, CD-ROM, diskette, etc. In still other embodiments, the actual instructions are not present in the kit, but a means is provided for obtaining the instructions from a remote source, for example, via the Internet. An example of this embodiment is a kit that includes a web address where the instructions can be viewed and / or from which the instructions can be downloaded. As with the instructions, the means for obtaining the instructions are recorded on a suitable substrate.

[0085] Glycopolymers, monomers and methods for producing same The present disclosure also provides a glycopolymer. In some embodiments, the glycopolymer of the present disclosure comprises a polymer scaffold and one or more mannose 6-phosphate receptor (M6PR) ligands attached to the polymer scaffold. The glycopolymer, polymer scaffold and / or M6PR ligand may be any of those described in the bifunctional molecule section above, which is incorporated herein but will not be repeated for brevity. For example, the glycopolymer may be a glycoprotein comprising one or more amino acids functionalized with one or more M6PR ligands. The glycoprotein may be an N-carboxyanhydride (NCA) derived glycoprotein. In certain aspects, the one or more M6PR ligands comprise one or more mannose-6-phosphates (M6P). Alternatively, or in addition, the one or more M6PR ligands comprise one or more M6P analogs, such as any M6P analogs described herein, such as one or more mannose-6-phosphonates (M6Pn). In some embodiments, the polymer scaffold comprises 1-50 M6PR ligands, e.g., 1-40, 1-30, 1-20, 1-10 (e.g., 1-6), or 1-5 M6PR ligands. In certain aspects, the polymer scaffold comprises 10-50, 15-45, 20-40, or 25-35 M6PR ligands. In certain aspects, the polymer scaffold comprises 5 or more, 10 or more, 20 or more, 30 or more, or 40 or more M6PR ligands.

[0086] Methods for producing the glycopolymers of the present disclosure are also provided. In some embodiments, the production of the glycopolymer comprises polymerization. The polymerization may be by NCA polymerization, an example of which is shown diagrammatically in FIG.

[0087] In certain embodiments, the method of making glycopolymer comprises attaching one or more M6PR ligands to a polymer scaffold.In other embodiments, such a method comprises synthesizing a polymer scaffold from a monomer functionalized with one or more M6PR ligands.For example, the scaffold can be synthesized from one or more monomers functionalized with one or more M6PR ligands, and the synthesis is by solid-phase synthesis.An exemplary solid-phase synthesis scheme is shown in Figure 9.

[0088] In a related aspect, the present disclosure provides a monomer. The monomer is functionalized with one or more mannose-6-phosphate receptor (M6PR) ligands. In certain aspects, the monomer is an amino acid. In some embodiments, the monomer is a non-natural amino acid. The one or more M6PR ligands may include one or more mannose-6-phosphate (M6P). Alternatively or in addition, the one or more M6PR ligands may include one or more M6P analogs, such as any M6P analogs described herein, such as mannose-6-phosphonate (M6Pn).

[0089] Regardless of the scope of the appended claims, the present disclosure is also defined by the following embodiments.

[0090] 1. A bifunctional molecule comprising: a first portion that specifically binds to a cell surface or extracellular molecule; and a second portion that specifically binds to a lysosomal targeting molecule.

[0091] 2. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 1, which enhances degradation of a cell surface or extracellular molecule relative to degradation of the cell surface or extracellular molecule in the presence of the first moiety alone.

[0092] 3. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 1 or embodiment 2, wherein the first portion specifically binds to a cell surface molecule.

[0093] 4. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 3, wherein the cell surface molecule is a cell surface receptor.

[0094] 5. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 4, wherein the cell surface receptor is a growth factor receptor.

[0095] 6. The bifunctional molecule of any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the cell surface molecule is present on a cancer cell.

[0096] 7. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 6, wherein the cell surface molecule is a tumor-associated or tumor-specific antigen.

[0097] 8. The bifunctional molecule of any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the cell surface molecule is present on an immune cell.

[0098] 9. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 8, wherein the immune cells are selected from the group consisting of natural killer (NK) cells, macrophages, monocytes, neutrophils, dendritic cells, T cells, B cells, mast cells, basophils and eosinophils.

[0099] 10. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 8, wherein the cell surface molecule is an inhibitory immunoreceptor.

[0100] 11. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 10, wherein the cell surface molecule is a ligand for an inhibitory immunoreceptor.

[0101] 12. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 8, wherein the cell surface molecule is an immune checkpoint molecule.

[0102] 13. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 12, wherein the immune checkpoint molecule is selected from the group consisting of PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA4, TIM3, LAG3, TIGIT, and members of the B7 family.

[0103] 14. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 1, wherein the first portion specifically binds to an extracellular molecule.

[0104] 15. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 14, wherein the extracellular molecule is a ligand for a cell surface receptor.

[0105] 16. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 15, wherein the extracellular molecule is a growth factor.

[0106] 17. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 15, wherein the extracellular molecule is a cytokine or chemokine.

[0107] 18. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 14, wherein the extracellular molecule is an antibody.

[0108] 19. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 18, wherein the antibody is an autoantibody.

[0109] 20. The bifunctional molecule according to embodiment 18 or embodiment 19, wherein the antibody specifically binds to a cell surface molecule or an extracellular molecule.

[0110] 21. The bifunctional molecule according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first moiety is selected from the group consisting of a polypeptide, a ligand, an aptamer, a nanoparticle and a small molecule.

[0111] 22. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 21, wherein the first portion is a polypeptide.

[0112] 23. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 22, wherein the first portion is an antibody.

[0113] 24. The antibody is an IgG, single chain Fv (scFv), Fab, or (Fab) 2 , (scFv') 2 24. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 23, which is a nanobody.

[0114] 25. The bifunctional molecule according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second moiety is selected from the group consisting of a polypeptide, a ligand, an aptamer, a nanoparticle and a small molecule.

[0115] 26. The bifunctional molecule according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the lysosomal targeting molecule is the mannose-6-phosphate receptor (M6PR).

[0116] 27. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 26, wherein the second portion comprises one or more M6PR ligands.

[0117] 28. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 27, wherein the one or more M6PR ligands comprise one or more mannose-6-phosphates (M6Ps).

[0118] 29. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 27 or embodiment 28, wherein the one or more M6PR ligands comprise one or more M6P analogues.

[0119] 30. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 29, wherein the one or more M6P analogs comprise one or more mannose-6-phosphonates (M6Pn).

[0120] 31. The bifunctional molecule according to any one of embodiments 27 to 30, wherein the second portion comprises 1 to 500 M6PR ligands.

[0121] 32. The bifunctional molecule according to any one of embodiments 27 to 31, wherein the second portion comprises a polymer scaffold that displays one or more M6PR ligands.

[0122] 33. The bifunctional molecule according to embodiment 32, wherein the polymer scaffold is a glycopolymer comprising one or more M6PR ligands.

[0123] 34. The bifunctional molecule according to embodiment 33, wherein the glycopolymer is a glycoprotein comprising one or more amino acids functionalized with one or more M6PR ligands.

[0124] 35. The bifunctional molecule according to embodiment 34, wherein the glycoprotein is an N-carboxyanhydride (NCA) derived glycoprotein.

[0125] 36. The bifunctional molecule according to any one of embodiments 1 to 25, wherein the lysosomal targeting molecule is expressed on the surface of liver cells.

[0126] 37. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 36, wherein the lysosomal targeting molecule is expressed on the surface of liver cells.

[0127] 38. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 36 or embodiment 37, wherein the endothelial targeting molecule is expressed on the surface of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells, fibrotic liver cells, or both.

[0128] 39. The bifunctional molecule according to any one of embodiments 36 to 38, wherein the lysosomal targeting molecule is the asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR).

[0129] 40. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 39, wherein the second portion comprises one or more ASGPR ligands.

[0130] 41. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 40, wherein the one or more ASGPR ligands comprise one or more N-acetylgalactosamines (GalNAc).

[0131] 42. The bifunctional molecule according to embodiment 40 or embodiment 41, wherein the one or more ASGPR ligands comprise one or more galactoses.

[0132] 43. The bifunctional molecule according to any one of embodiments 40 to 42, wherein the one or more ASGPR ligands comprise one or more glucoses.

[0133] 44. The bifunctional molecule according to any one of embodiments 40 to 43, wherein the second portion comprises 1 to 500 ASGPR ligands.

[0134] 45. The bifunctional molecule according to any one of embodiments 40 to 44, wherein the second portion comprises a polymer comprising one or more ASGPR ligands.

[0135] 46. ​​The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 45, wherein the second portion comprises poly(GalNAc-co-Ala).

[0136] 47. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 41, wherein the second portion comprises a monovalent, divalent, or trivalent GalNAc-containing dendrimer scaffold.

[0137] 48. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 47, wherein the second portion comprises a trivalent GalNAc-containing dendrimer scaffold.

[0138] 49. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 42, wherein the second portion comprises a monovalent, divalent, or trivalent galactose-containing dendrimer scaffold.

[0139] 50. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 49, wherein the second portion comprises a trivalent galactose-containing dendrimer scaffold.

[0140] 51. A bifunctional molecule according to any one of embodiments 36 to 50, wherein the first portion specifically binds to a cell surface molecule expressed on hepatocytes.

[0141] 52. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 51, wherein the cell surface molecule is a growth factor receptor.

[0142] 53. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 52, wherein the growth factor receptor is selected from the group consisting of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), C-Met, insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R), fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4), and platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR).

[0143] 54. The bifunctional molecule of any one of embodiments 1 to 53, wherein the first portion is a polypeptide, the second portion is a polypeptide, and the bifunctional molecule is a fusion protein comprising the first portion fused to the second portion.

[0144] 55. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 54, wherein the first moiety is fused directly to the second moiety.

[0145] 56. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 54, comprising a spacer domain between the first and second portions.

[0146] 57. A bifunctional molecule, Cell surface or extracellular molecules 57. The bifunctional molecule of any one of embodiments 1 to 56, which is a bispecific antibody that specifically binds to a lysosomal targeting molecule.

[0147] 58. The bifunctional molecule according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the bifunctional molecule is a conjugate comprising a first moiety conjugated to a second moiety.

[0148] 59. The bifunctional molecule of embodiment 58, wherein the first portion is an antibody.

[0149] 60. The bifunctional molecule according to embodiment 58 or embodiment 59, comprising a second moiety as defined in any one of embodiments 27 to 35.

[0150] 61. The bifunctional molecule according to embodiment 58 or embodiment 59, comprising a second moiety as defined in any one of embodiments 40 to 50.

[0151] 62. A nucleic acid encoding a bifunctional molecule according to any one of embodiments 54 to 57.

[0152] 63. An expression vector comprising the nucleic acid according to embodiment 62.

[0153] 64. A cell comprising the nucleic acid of embodiment 62 or the expression vector of embodiment 63.

[0154] 65. A method for producing a cell according to embodiment 64, comprising introducing into a cell a nucleic acid according to embodiment 62 or an expression vector according to embodiment 63.

[0155] 66. A method of making a bifunctional molecule according to embodiment 58 or embodiment 59, comprising conjugating a first moiety to a second moiety.

[0156] 67. The method of embodiment 66, wherein conjugating comprises site-specifically conjugating the first moiety to the second moiety.

[0157] 68. The method of embodiment 67, wherein the first portion comprises a polypeptide and the conjugating comprises site-specifically conjugating the second portion to a preselected amino acid of the first portion.

[0158] 69. The method of embodiment 68, wherein the preselected amino acid is at the N-terminus or C-terminus of the first portion.

[0159] 70. The method of embodiment 68, wherein the preselected amino acid is within the first portion.

[0160] 71. The method of any one of embodiments 68 to 70, wherein the preselected amino acid is an unnatural amino acid.

[0161] 72. The method of any one of embodiments 66 to 71, wherein the first moiety is an antibody.

[0162] 73. The method of any one of embodiments 66 to 72, wherein the second part is as defined in any one of embodiments 27 to 35.

[0163] 74. The method of any one of embodiments 66 to 72, wherein the second portion is as defined in any one of embodiments 40 to 50.

[0164] 75. The method of any one of embodiments 66 to 74, wherein the conjugating is by alkyne-azide cycloaddition.

[0165] 76. A method for degrading a cell surface molecule or an extracellular molecule, comprising: A method comprising contacting a cell surface molecule or extracellular molecule with a bifunctional molecule of any one of embodiments 1 to 61 under conditions where the lysosomal targeting molecule shuttles the cell surface molecule or extracellular molecule to a lysosome for degradation.

[0166] 77. The method of embodiment 76, wherein the bifunctional molecule enhances degradation of the cell surface or extracellular molecule relative to degradation of the cell surface or extracellular molecule in the presence of only the first moiety.

[0167] 78. The method according to embodiment 76 or embodiment 77, which is carried out in vitro.

[0168] 79. The method of embodiment 76 or embodiment 77, which is carried out in vivo.

[0169] 80. A pharmaceutical composition comprising: A bifunctional molecule according to any one of embodiments 1 to 61; and a pharma- ceutically acceptable carrier.

[0170] 81. The pharmaceutical composition according to embodiment 80, wherein the composition is formulated for parenteral administration.

[0171] 82. A method comprising administering the pharmaceutical composition of embodiment 80 or embodiment 81 to an individual in need thereof.

[0172] 83. A method for treating cancer, comprising administering to an individual having cancer an effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition according to embodiment 80 or embodiment 81.

[0173] 84. The method of embodiment 83, wherein the first portion specifically binds to a molecule selected from the group consisting of a cell surface molecule on a cancer cell, a ligand of a cell surface molecule on a cancer cell, a cell surface molecule on an immune cell, a ligand of a cell surface molecule on an immune cell, an inhibitory immunoreceptor, and a ligand of an inhibitory immunoreceptor.

[0174] 85. The method of embodiment 83 or embodiment 84, wherein the individual has hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and the first moiety binds to a cell surface molecule on HCC cells of the individual, and the second moiety binds to ASGPR.

[0175] 86. The method of embodiment 85, wherein the first moiety binds to a growth factor on HCC cells of the individual.

[0176] 87. The method of embodiment 90, wherein the first moiety binds to a growth factor selected from the group consisting of EGFR, C-Met, IGF1R and FGFR4.

[0177] 88. The method of any one of embodiments 85 to 87, wherein the second portion is as defined in any one of embodiments 36 to 50.

[0178] 89. A method for enhancing antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), comprising administering to an individual in need thereof a pharmaceutical composition according to embodiment 80 or embodiment 81.

[0179] 90. A method for enhancing the immunogenicity of cancer in an individual, comprising administering to the individual a pharmaceutical composition according to embodiment 80 or embodiment 81.

[0180] 91. The method of embodiment 89 or embodiment 90, wherein the first portion specifically binds to a molecule selected from the group consisting of an inhibitory immunoreceptor and a ligand of an inhibitory immunoreceptor.

[0181] 92. The method of any one of embodiments 82 to 91, wherein the administering is by parenteral administration.

[0182] 93. The method of any one of embodiments 82 to 91, wherein the bifunctional molecule enhances degradation of a cell surface or extracellular molecule relative to degradation of the cell surface or extracellular molecule in the presence of only the first moiety.

[0183] 94. A bifunctional molecule according to any one of embodiments 1 to 61; and instructions for degrading the cell surface or extracellular molecule to which the first portion specifically binds.

[0184] 95. The kit of embodiment 94, wherein the instructions are for degrading cell surface or extracellular molecules in vitro.

[0185] 96. The kit of embodiment 94, wherein the instructions are for degrading cell surface or extracellular molecules in vivo.

[0186] 97. A bifunctional molecule according to any one of embodiments 1 to 61 or a pharmaceutical composition according to embodiment 80 or embodiment 81, and instructions for administering the bifunctional molecule or pharmaceutical composition to an individual in need thereof.

[0187] 98. The kit according to embodiment 97, wherein the bifunctional molecule or pharmaceutical composition is present in one or more unit doses.

[0188] 99. The kit according to embodiment 97, wherein the bifunctional molecule or pharmaceutical composition is present in two or more unit doses.

[0189] 100. A polymer scaffold; and one or more mannose-6-phosphate receptor (M6PR) ligands attached to a polymer scaffold.

[0190] 101. The glycopolymer according to embodiment 100, wherein the glycopolymer is a glycoprotein comprising one or more amino acids functionalized with one or more M6PR ligands.

[0191] 102. The glycopolymer of embodiment 101, wherein the glycoprotein is an N-carboxyanhydride (NCA)-derived glycoprotein.

[0192] 103. The glycopolymer of any one of embodiments 100 to 102, wherein the one or more M6PR ligands comprise one or more mannose-6-phosphates (M6Ps).

[0193] 104. The glycopolymer of any one of embodiments 100 to 103, wherein the one or more M6PR ligands comprise one or more M6P analogues.

[0194] 105. The glycopolymer of embodiment 104, wherein the one or more M6P analogues comprise one or more mannose-6-phosphonates (M6Pn).

[0195] 106. A glycopolymer according to any one of embodiments 100 to 105, wherein the polymer scaffold comprises 1 to 500 M6PR ligands.

[0196] 107. A method for producing a glycopolymer according to any one of embodiments 100 to 106, comprising: Attaching one or more M6PR ligands to a polymer scaffold; or A method comprising synthesizing a polymeric scaffold from monomers functionalized with one or more M6PR ligands.

[0197] 108. The method of embodiment 107, wherein the scaffold is polymerized from one or more monomers functionalized with one or more M6PR ligands, and the synthesizing is by solid phase synthesis.

[0198] 109. The method of embodiment 108, wherein the glycopolymer is a glycoprotein polymer and the synthesizing is by solid phase peptide synthesis.

[0199] 110. A glycopolymer according to any one of embodiments 100 to 106, and instructions for conjugating the glycopolymer to a molecule of interest.

[0200] 111. The kit according to embodiment 110, further comprising a reagent for conjugating the glycopolymer to a molecule of interest.

[0201] 112. The kit according to embodiment 110 or embodiment 111, wherein the molecule of interest is a polypeptide.

[0202] 113. The kit according to embodiment 112, wherein the polypeptide is an antibody.

[0203] 114. A kit according to any one of embodiments 110 to 113, wherein the molecule of interest specifically binds to a cell surface molecule or an extracellular molecule.

[0204] 115. Monomers functionalized with one or more mannose-6-phosphate receptor (M6PR) ligands.

[0205] 116. The monomer according to embodiment 115, wherein the monomer is an amino acid.

[0206] 117. The monomer according to embodiment 115, wherein the monomer is an unnatural amino acid.

[0207] 118. The monomer according to any one of embodiments 115 to 117, wherein the one or more M6PR ligands comprise one or more mannose-6-phosphates (M6Ps).

[0208] 119. The monomer according to any one of embodiments 115 to 118, wherein the one or more M6PR ligands comprise one or more M6P analogues.

[0209] 120. The monomer according to embodiment 119, wherein the one or more M6P analogues comprise one or more mannose-6-phosphonates (M6Pn). EXAMPLES

[0210] The following examples are offered by way of illustration and not by way of limitation.

[0211] experiment Example 1 - Mannose-6-phosphate polymers shuttle cargo to lysosomes In this example, a bifunctional molecule (see FIG. 10) comprising a biotin cap ("first moiety" as used herein - shown as a triangle in FIG. 10) and an M6Pn polymer ("second moiety" as used herein) was tested to determine whether the bifunctional molecule could mediate the transfer of neutravidin-647 (NA647 - a protein to which biotin binds strongly) from the extracellular space to lysosomes for degradation. FIG. 10 provides fluorescent imaging results (bottom) that demonstrate that the bifunctional molecule can indeed mediate the transfer of neutravidin-647 to lysosomes, as colocalization of both the protein and the lysosomal staining dye is observed.

[0212] Next, various cell lines were tested as described above. Figure 11 shows data demonstrating that some cell lines show NA 647 uptake in an M6Pn polymer-dependent manner. Given these results, it is expected that any cell line with M6PR (e.g., CIM6PR) will be able to shuttling cell surface and extracellular molecules to lysosomes by this method, and is not limited to the cell lines tested in this study.

[0213] Example 2 - M6Pn-conjugated antibodies shuttle targets to lysosomes In this example, a bifunctional molecule was tested in which the first moiety was an antibody that binds to a specific target of interest and the second moiety was an M6Pn-containing glycoprotein.

[0214] A schematic (top) and fluorescence imaging data (bottom) are provided showing that poly(M6Pn)-labeled antibodies can shuttle their binding partners to lysosomes. In this example, mouse IgG-488 was incubated with an anti-mouse IgG antibody bearing a poly(M6Pn) tag, resulting in colocalization of both the protein and the lysosomal staining dye (merge).

[0215] Figure 14 provides a schematic (top) and further data (bottom) showing that poly(M6Pn)-labeled antibodies can shuttle their binding partners to intracellular compartments. In this example, recombinant human apoE4 was incubated with mouse-derived anti-human apoE4 antibody, anti-mouse IgG antibody, or anti-mouse antibody with a poly(M6Pn) tag. Significantly more uptake is observed with the M6Pn-containing secondary antibody.

[0216] Further data are provided in FIG. 15 demonstrating that poly(M6Pn)-labeled antibodies can shuttle their binding partners for degradation. In this example, EGFR degradation was assessed by incubating cells with cetuximab bearing an M6Pn tag. For all cell lines tested, loss of total EGFR is observed compared to cetuximab or cetuximab bearing a pseudopolymer (GalNAc). EGF is a positive control for EGFR degradation. Lane 1: control. Lane 2: EGF (100 ng / mL, 1 hour, + control). Lane 3: cetuximab. Lane 4: cetuximab-GalNAc conjugate. Lane 5: cetuximab-M6P conjugate (long). Lane 6: cetuximab-M6P conjugate (short). Percentage of control was calculated by densitometry.

[0217] Figure 16 provides data demonstrating that poly(M6Pn)-labeled antibody fragments can shuttle their binding partners for degradation. In this example, EGFR degradation was assessed by incubating cells with a cetuximab-derived Fab moiety bearing an M6Pn tag. Loss of total EGFR is observed compared to cetuximab Fab alone or cetuximab Fab(GalNAc) bearing a pseudopolymer.

[0218] Further data are provided in Figure 17 demonstrating that poly(M6Pn)-labeled antibodies can shuttle their binding partners for degradation. In this example, degradation of CD71 (transferrin receptor) was assessed by incubating cells with a primary mouse-derived antibody against CD71, an anti-mouse IgG antibody, or an anti-mouse antibody with a poly(M6Pn) tag. The system containing the M6P tag results in significantly more degradation.

[0219] Further data is provided in Figure 18 demonstrating that poly(M6Pn)-labeled antibodies can shuttle their binding partners for degradation. In this example, PDL1 degradation was assessed by incubating cells with anti-PDL1 antibody or anti-PDL1 antibody with M6P tag. Degradation is observed only with M6P-labeled anti-PDL1 antibody.

[0220] Example 3 - ASGPR ligands shuttle cargo to lysosomes in hepatocytes Some current therapies suffer from off-target effects. In this example, targeted degradation of proteins in the liver is described, which can be used to treat liver-related diseases such as liver cancer and liver fibrosis. A scavenger receptor called asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) is expressed exclusively or nearly exclusively in liver cells (hepatocytes). As shown diagrammatically in FIG. 20 (left), ASGPR constitutively recycles between the plasma membrane and endosomes. ASGPR carries extracellular glycoproteins into the cell for degradation in lysosomes. Demonstrated herein is the utilization of this receptor to degrade extracellular or membrane proteins on hepatocytes using a bifunctional molecule that includes a first portion that binds to the membrane or extracellular protein and a second portion that includes an ASGPR ligand.

[0221] In the ASGPR-related examples herein, bifunctional molecules were tested that comprise an antibody that binds to a target molecule to be degraded conjugated to a second moiety that comprises a polymer of N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc), specifically, a poly(GalNAc-co-Ala) polymer as shown in FIG. 20 (bottom left).

[0222] To evaluate whether bifunctional molecules containing ASGPR ligands can indeed shuttle cargo to lysosomes in hepatocytes, an assay as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 21 was used. Bifunctional molecules containing anti-mouse IgG antibodies conjugated to poly(GalNAc-co-Ala) polymers were tested to determine whether they could shuttle extracellular fluorescently labeled mouse IgG (IgG-AF647) to the intracellular compartment of hepatocytes. In this example, bifunctional molecules containing anti-mouse IgG antibodies conjugated to M6PR ligands were also tested. HEPG2 cells (hepatocellular carcinoma cell line) were incubated with 50 nM IgG-AF 647 and 25 nM anti-mouse conjugates for 1 hour. Cellular uptake was analyzed by flow cytometry. As shown by the bar graph, an approximately 8-fold increase in cellular fluorescence was observed when using GalNAc-containing conjugates, while M6Pn-containing conjugates induced a 2-fold increase over background. The data demonstrate that in hepatocytes in which the expression levels of ASGPR are higher than those of M6PR, GalNAc-containing conjugates are more effective in inducing cellular uptake.

[0223] Figure 22 shows the results of the assay described in Figure 21, but in HUH7 cells (another hepatocellular carcinoma cell line). Efficient uptake of IgG-AF647 into HUH7 cells was observed. In addition, controls were included in which cells were incubated with inhibitors of M6PR or ASGPR (monomeric M6P (mM6P) and monomeric GalNAc (mGalNAc), respectively). When cells were incubated with the inhibitors, uptake was reduced, indicating that uptake by GalNAc or M6Pn-containing conjugates is indeed mediated by ASGPR or M6PR, respectively.

[0224] Example 4 - Efficient degradation of EGFR in hepatocytes using cetuximab-ASGPR ligand conjugate Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is known to induce proliferation and angiogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). 68% of HCC patients express EGFR on their HCC cells. Transplantation currently remains the best treatment option for HCC patients, and the supply of good quality deceased donor organs is limited. Although receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) inhibitors or antibodies are often used for treatment, HCC cells develop resistance to these treatments through heterodimerization of receptor tyrosine kinases (EGFR, HER2, HER 3, c-Met, IGF1R), which leads to phosphorylation of the same downstream effectors to restore oncogenic signaling via RTK crosstalk. Cetuximab, an EGFR-blocking antibody, failed in phase II clinical trials in HCC patients.

[0225] In this example, we evaluated whether a bifunctional molecule comprising an anti-EGFR antibody (in this example, cetuximab) conjugated to an ASGPR ligand (in this example, poly(GalNAc-co-Ala)) could induce EGFR uptake and degradation in HCC cells, as shown diagrammatically in Figure 23 (top). A cetuximab-M6PR ligand conjugate was also tested.

[0226] HEP3B cells were used in the first experiment. The cells were incubated with 10 nM cetuximab conjugate for 48 hours and then lysed for Western blot analysis. The Western blot (shown at the bottom of Figure 23) has five lanes: 1) no treatment, 2) EGF (a known down-regulator of EGFR), 3) cetuximab, 4) cetuximab-GalNAc conjugate, and 5) cetuximab-M6Pn conjugate. As shown, the cetuximab-GalNAc conjugate showed efficient EGFR degradation, and greater EGFR degradation compared to the cetuximab-M6Pn conjugate. Vinculin was used as a loading control.

[0227] HEPG2 cells were used in the second experiment. The results are shown in Figure 24. Efficient degradation of EGFR in HEPG2 cells was observed. Here, the degradation efficiency was similar between the cetuximab-GalNAc conjugate and the cetuximab-M6Pn conjugate, likely due to the relative levels of EGFR in HEP3B and HEPG2 cell lines. On the right side, the relative mRNA levels of these receptors and EGFR in the two cell lines are shown (available in public databases). Since EGFR levels are relatively low in HEPG2 cells compared to HEP3B cells, these data suggest that even in the case of the less effective degrader (cetuximab-M6Pn conjugate), most of the membrane EGFR is degraded, and the residual EGFR seen in the Western blot may be internal EGFR. ASGPR levels were also monitored, showing that the levels of ASGPR remained constant across different treatments.

[0228] Next, a time course study was performed to assess EGFR degradation over time in HEP3B cells treated with cetuximab conjugates. The results are shown in Figure 25. As shown, by 12 hours, the cetuximab-GalNAc conjugate reduces EGFR levels to less than 50%. Degradation increases at 48 hours. The cetuximab-M6Pn conjugate did not reduce EGFR levels to less than 50% at any of the time points tested.

[0229] Immunofluorescence experiments were performed to assess whether the residual EGFR was membrane or intracellular EGFR. The results are shown in FIG. 26. Cell outlines in HEP3B and cetuximab show EGFR localization on the membrane. When HEP3B was treated with cetuximab-M6Pn conjugate, some of the EGFR was localized internally and some remained on the membrane. When HEP3B was treated with cetuximab-GalNAc conjugate, little EGFR was observed on the membrane, and most of the EGFR was intracellular. Thus, the cetuximab-GalNAc conjugate degraded most of the membrane-bound EGFR, and the residual (approximately 30%) EGFR seen on the Western blot appears to be intracellular EGFR.

[0230] Example 5 - Trastuzumab alone and trastuzumab conjugate-mediated HER2 degradation In this example, the extent of HER2 degradation in HUH 7 and HEPG2 cells was evaluated in the presence of trastuzumab alone or trastuzumab conjugated to a GalNAc-containing polymer ("Trastuzumab-GalNAc") as shown in Figure 20. HUH7 and HEPG2 cells were incubated with 10 nM trastuzumab or trastuzumab-GalNAc conjugate for 48 hours and then lysed for Western blot analysis. The Western blot in Figure 27 has three lanes for each cell line: 1) no treatment, 2) trastuzumab, 3) trastuzumab-GalNAc. The bar graph in Figure 27 shows the average percentage of HER2 relative to control in each cell line. As shown, there was no statistical difference in HER2 degradation in either cell line in the presence of trastuzumab alone or trastuzumab conjugated to a GalNAc-containing polymer. Thus, the trastuzumab-GalNAc conjugate did not enhance the degradation of HER2 compared to the degradation of HER2 in the presence of trastuzumab alone.

[0231] Thus, the above merely describes the principles of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various configurations may be devised that embody the principles of the invention and are within the spirit and scope of the invention, although not expressly described or illustrated herein. Furthermore, all examples and conditional language recited herein are intended primarily to aid the reader in understanding the principles of the invention and the concepts contributed by the inventors to advance the art, and should not be construed as limitations to such specifically recited examples and conditions. Furthermore, all descriptions herein reciting the principles, aspects, and embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. In addition, such equivalents are intended to include both currently known equivalents and equivalents developed in the future, i.e., any developed elements that perform the same function, regardless of structure. Thus, the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited to the exemplary embodiments shown and described herein.

Claims

1. A bifunctional molecule, a first portion that specifically binds to a cell surface or extracellular molecule; a second portion that specifically binds to the mannose-6-phosphate receptor (M6PR); wherein said second portion comprises a polymer scaffold that displays one or more M6PR ligands.

2. The bifunctional molecule of claim 1 , wherein the first portion specifically binds to a cell surface molecule.

3. The bifunctional molecule of claim 2 , wherein the cell surface molecule is a cell surface receptor.

4. The bifunctional molecule of claim 1 , wherein the first portion specifically binds to an extracellular molecule.

5. The bifunctional molecule of claim 4 , wherein the extracellular molecule is a ligand for a cell surface receptor.

6. The bifunctional molecule of claim 5 , wherein the extracellular molecule is a growth factor, a cytokine, a chemokine, or an antibody.

7. The bifunctional molecule of claim 6 , wherein the antibody is an autoantibody.

8. 5. The bifunctional molecule of claim 4, wherein the extracellular molecule is selected from a secreted protein that accumulates in disease, a cholesterol carrier, an infectious disease toxin, an infectious particle, a clotting factor, a target of an FDA approved antibody that binds to the extracellular molecule, a chemokine or cytokine, a proteinaceous hormone, a proteinaceous mediator of a mood disorder, a proteinaceous mediator of energy homeostasis, a proteinaceous allergen present in the bloodstream or an antibody against such an allergen, and a proteinaceous toxin.

9. The bifunctional molecule of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first moiety is selected from the group consisting of a polypeptide, a ligand, an aptamer, a nanoparticle and a small molecule.

10. 10. The bifunctional molecule of claim 9, wherein the first portion is a polypeptide ligand of a cell surface or extracellular molecule.

11. The bifunctional molecule of claim 10 , wherein the first moiety is an antibody.

12. The antibody is an IgG, a single chain Fv (scFv), a Fab, a ２ , (scFv') ２ 12. The bifunctional molecule of claim 11, which is a nucleotide sequence of a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of nucleotides, ... and nucleotides.

13. 12. The bifunctional molecule of claim 11 , wherein the first moiety is an antibody and the bifunctional molecule is a conjugate comprising the antibody conjugated to the second moiety via a linker.

14. The bifunctional molecule of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the one or more M6PR ligands comprise one or more mannose-6-phosphate (M6P).

15. The bifunctional molecule of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the one or more M6PR ligands comprise one or more M6P analogues.

16. 16. The bifunctional molecule of claim 15, wherein the one or more M6P analogs comprise one or more mannose-6-phosphonates (M6Pn).

17. The bifunctional molecule of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the second portion comprises 1 to 500 M6PR ligands.

18. The bifunctional molecule of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the second portion comprises a peptide scaffold that displays the one or more M6PR ligands.

19. 20. The bifunctional molecule of claim 18, wherein the second portion is a glycoprotein comprising one or more amino acids functionalized with the one or more M6PR ligands.

20. 20. The bifunctional molecule of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the first portion is a polypeptide and the second portion is a polypeptide, and the bifunctional molecule is a fusion protein comprising the first portion fused to the second portion.

21. 21. The bifunctional molecule of claim 20, wherein the first moiety is directly fused to the second moiety.

22. 21. The bifunctional molecule of claim 20, comprising a spacer domain between the first portion and the second portion.

23. 14. A method of making the bifunctional molecule of claim 13 comprising conjugating the first moiety to the second moiety.

24. 1. An in vitro method for degrading a cell surface or extracellular molecule, comprising:

23. A method comprising contacting a cell surface or extracellular molecule with the bifunctional molecule of any one of claims 1 to 22 under conditions in which the mannose-6-phosphate receptor (M6PR) shuttles the cell surface or extracellular molecule to lysosomes for degradation.

25. 1. A pharmaceutical composition comprising: A bifunctional molecule according to any one of claims 1 to 22, and a pharma- ceutically acceptable carrier.

26. 26. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 25 for use in a method comprising administering the composition to an individual in need thereof.

27. 26. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 25 for use in a method of treating cancer comprising administering an effective amount of the composition to an individual having cancer.

28. 26. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 25, for use in a method of enhancing antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), comprising administering the composition to an individual in need of ADCC.

29. 26. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 25, for use in a method of enhancing the immunogenicity of cancer in an individual comprising administering the composition to said individual.

30. A kit comprising: A bifunctional molecule according to any one of claims 1 to 22, and instructions for degrading a cell surface or extracellular molecule to which the first portion specifically binds.

31. A kit comprising: A bifunctional molecule according to any one of claims 1 to 22 or a pharmaceutical composition according to claim 25, and instructions for administering the bifunctional molecule or pharmaceutical composition to an individual in need thereof.

32. A peptide scaffold; and one or more mannose-6-phosphate receptor (M6PR) ligands attached to said peptide scaffold, A glycopolymer, wherein the peptide scaffold comprises one or more amino acid monomers functionalized with the M6PR ligand, and wherein the amino acid monomers functionalized with the M6PR ligand do not contain an oligosaccharide.

33. 33. A method for producing the glycopolymer of claim 32, comprising: conjugating one or more M6PR ligands to said peptide scaffold; or synthesizing said peptide scaffold from monomers functionalized with one or more M6PR ligands.

34. A glycopolymer according to claim 32; and instructions for conjugating the glycopolymer to a molecule of interest.

Images