Bispecific T Cell Engager Antibodies Targeting CD20
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- NANJING PROBIO BIOTECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-10-21
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-21
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Figure PCTCN2025129016-FTAPPB-I100001 
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Figure PCTCN2025129016-FTAPPB-I100003
Abstract
Description
Bispecific T Cell Engager Antibodies Targeting CD20CROSS-REFERENCES
[0001] This application claims priority benefits of International Patent Applications No. PCT / CN2024 / 131822 filed on November 13, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. SUBMISSION OF SEQUENCE LISTING ON XML FILE
[0002] The content of the following submission on XML file is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety: a computer readable form (CRF) of the Sequence Listing, named “P12315-PCT. 251021. Sequence listing” , having a size of 16, 842 bytes, and a date of creation: October 21, 2025.Background
[0003] Bispecific antibodies (bsAbs) are artificial proteins that can simultaneously bind two different antigens or epitopes. A major class of bsAbs are T cell engagers (TCEs) , which are designed to redirect and activate cytotoxic T cells towards specific target cells by binding to CD3, a component of the T cell receptor (TCR) complex, with one binding arm and a tumor-associated antigen (TAA) with the other [1, 2] . This forcedjuxtaposition bypasses major histocompatibility complex (MHC) restriction and can initiate a potent, cytotoxic immune response against cancer cells.
[0004] The CD20 antigen is a well-validated, cell surface target expressed on malignant and normal B cells, but not on hematopoietic stem cells, making it an ideal target for B cell malignancies [3] . The anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, rituximab, has become a cornerstone of treatment for non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) , demonstrating the clinical utility of targeting CD20 [4] . Furthermore, B cell depletion via anti-CD20 therapy (e.g., rituximab, ocrelizumab) is a validated and effective strategy for treating several autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and systemic lupus erythematosus.
[0005] Despite the success of first-generation therapies, a significant unmet medical need remains for patients with relapsed or refractory (r / r) B cell malignancies and for patients with severe treatment-resistant autoimmune diseases. To address this, CD3xCD20 bsAbs have been developed. Blinatumomab, a CD19xCD3 TCE comprised of two single-chain fragment variable domains, demonstrated the clinical potential of TCEs [5] , followed by several other full-length CD3xCD20 bsAb formats that have entered clinical development (e.g., mosunetuzumab, glofitamab, epcoritamab) [6, 7, 8] . These agents have shown promising efficacy; however, significant challenges and limitations remain. Similarly, in autoimmunity, current B cell depletion therapies can be limited by incomplete or short-lived responses.
[0006] A primary challenge with existing CD3xCD20 TCEs in oncology that would also be an important consideration for autoimmune applications is the management of cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) , which are common and potentially severe adverse events stemming from excessive, systemic T cell activation [9] . As a result, the therapeutic index of TCEs-the balance between efficacy and toxicity-is often narrow.
[0007] Furthermore, the structural format of the bispecific antibody critically influences its pharmacokinetics, stability, manufacturability, and ultimate biological activity. Many formats rely on complex engineering to solve chain association issues (e.g., knobs-into-holes technology) and can suffer from inefficient production or aggregation
[0010] . The geometry and valency of binding (e.g., monovalent vs. bivalent binding to each target) can dramatically affect potency, the ability to activate T-cells at low tumor burden, and the propensity to cause toxicity
[0011] . There is, therefore, a pressing need for novel CD3xCD20 bsAbs with improved properties, including a wider therapeutic window, potent B cell depletion capacity, enhanced efficacy at lower doses, reduced immunogenicity, and improved manufacturability.Summary of the Invention
[0008] The present invention addresses the aforementioned limitations in the art by providing a novel class of T Cell engager antibodies in the format of anti-CD3xCD20 bsAbs for enhanced safety and efficacy in treating certain diseases, including cancer and autoimmune diseases, such as B cell-mediated diseases.
[0009] In one aspect, the invention utilizes a novel anti-CD3 binding moiety based on a single-domain antibody (sdAb) . This sdAb is engineered into a bivalent format to enhance its avidity for CD3. This bivalent anti-CD3 module is then fused, via a flexible peptide linker, to the C or N-terminus of the heavy chain (HC) and / or light chain (LC) of an anti-CD20 antibody, specifically Rituximab. The inherent stability of the sdAb platform may improve stability and solubility of the BsAb, while simplifying production. The bivalency of CD3 allows for a symmetric structure of the lead BsAb, which may simplify the construction and CMC process development and improve the yield of the lead BsAbs during recombinant expression and manufacturing.
[0010] In another aspect, the current invention described a method of treating a disease in a subject in need thereof, comprising: administering to an effective amount of a bi-specific antibody to the subject, the bi-specific antibody comprising: i) an anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7; ii) an anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety which comprises a heavy chain variable domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8, a first heavy chain constant region CH1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 14, a Fc region comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 12, a light chain variable domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10, and a light chain constant domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11, wherein the anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety is linked to the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety.
[0011] In some embodiments, the anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety is linked to: i) the N-terminus of the heavy chain variable domain of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety; ii) the C-terminus of the Fc region of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety; or iii) the C-terminus of the light chain constant domain of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety; or IV) the anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety is inserted between the first heavy chain constant region CH1 and the Fc region of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety.
[0012] In one embodiment, the linking between the anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety and the N-or C-terminus of the heaving chain of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety, the C-terminus of the light chain of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety, or between the heavy chain CH1 and Fc region of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety is by a linker comprising the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 13.
[0013] The method of claim 1, wherein the bi-specific antibody comprises one of the following: i) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2; ii) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2; iii) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2; and iv) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6.
[0014] In some embodiments, the bi-specific antibody comprises a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.
[0015] In some embodiments of the method, the disease is an autoimmune disease.
[0016] In some embodiments, the disease is selected from the group consisting of: multiple sclerosis (MS) , rheumatoid arthritis (RA) , and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) .
[0017] In some embodiments, the disease is cancer. For example, the cancer can be one of the following: B-cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, pancreatic cancer, gastric cancer, esophageal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, renal cell carcinoma, head-and-neck tumors, mesothelioma, melanoma, sarcomas, and brain tumors.
[0018] In another aspect, use of a bi-specific antibody in the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of a disease is provided, wherein the bi-specific antibody comprising: i) an anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7; ii) an anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety which comprises a heavy chain variable domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8, a first heavy chain constant region CH1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 14, a Fc region comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 12, a light chain variable domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10, and a light chain constant domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11, wherein the anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety is linked to the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety, and wherein the disease is an autoimmune disease or cancer. The autoimmune disease and the cancer can be one of those as described hereinabove.
[0019] In some embodiments of the use, the anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety is linked to the N-or C-terminus of the heavy chain of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety, linked to the C-terminus of the light chain of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety, or inserted between the heavy chain variable domain and the heavy chain constant domain of the heavy chain of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety.
[0020] In some embodiments of the use, the bi-specific antibody comprises one of the following: i) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2; ii) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2; iii) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2; and iv) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6.
[0021] In a specific embodiment of the use, the bi-specific antibody comprises a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.
[0022] In another aspect, the present invention provides a bi-specific antibody comprising two heavy chains and two light chains, at least one of the heavy chains comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3 and at least one of the light chains comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.Brief Description of the Drawings
[0023] Fig. 1 is a plot showing the TDCC (T cell Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity) effect of CD20×CD3 bispecific antibody on JeKo-1 using human Pan T cell as effector cells (Donor: NF0058) .
[0024] Fig. 2 is a plot showing an TNFαrelease results of CD20×CD3 bispecific antibody in TDCC assay (Donor: NF0058) .
[0025] Fig. 3 is a plot showing the IFNγrelease results of a CD20×CD3 bispecific antibody of the present invention in TDCC assay (Donor: NF0058) .
[0026] Fig. 4 is a plot showing IL-2 release results of a CD20×CD3 bispecific antibody of the present invention in TDCC assay (Donor: NF0058) .
[0027] Fig. 5 is a plot showing TDCC effect of a CD20×CD3 bispecific antibody of the present invention on JeKo-1 using human Pan T cell as effector cell (Donor: P123091104C) .
[0028] Fig. 6 is a plot showing TNFαrelease results of a CD20×CD3 bispecific antibody of the present invention in TDCC assay (Donor: P123091104C) .
[0029] Fig. 7 is a plot showing IFNγrelease results of a CD20×CD3 bispecific antibody of the present invention in TDCC assay (Donor: P123091104C) .
[0030] Fig. 8 is a plot showing IL-2 release results of a CD20×CD3 bispecific antibody of the present invention in TDCC assay (Donor: P123091104C) .
[0031] Fig. 9 shows tumor growth curves of the Jeko-1 in human PBMC reconstituted mice treated by different agents.
[0032] Fig. 10 shows Body weight of the human PBMC reconstituted mice engrafted with JeKo-1 treated by different agents.
[0033] Fig. 11 shows tumor growth curves of the Jeko-1 in human PBMC reconstituted mice treated by different agents.
[0034] Fig. 12 shows body weight of the human PBMC reconstituted mice engrafted with JeKo-1 treated by different agents.
[0035] Fig. 13 shows tumor growth curves of the Jeko-1 in human PBMC reconstituted mice treated by different agents.
[0036] Fig. 14 shows body weight of the human PBMC reconstituted mice engrafted with JeKo-1 treated by different agents.
[0037] Fig. 15 shows B-cell depletion in hCD20&hCD3EDG transgenic mice treated by different agents.
[0038] Fig. 16 shows serum concentrations of drugs over time upon treating hCD20&hCD3EDG mice.
[0039] Figs. 17A-17E show changes in B cell and T cell counts in cynomolgus monkey treated by different agents.
[0040] Fig. 18 shows serum concentrations of drugs over time upon treating cynomolgus monkey.
[0041] Figs. 19A and 19B show ADA (anti-drug antibody) responses in cynomolgus monkey treated by different agents. Detailed Description of Certain Embodiments
[0042] The technical scheme of the present invention will be further described in detail below in conjunction with specific embodiments. It should be understood that the following embodiments are only exemplary descriptions and explanations of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention. All technologies implemented based on the above content of the present invention are included in the scope that the present invention is intended to protect.
[0043] Unless otherwise specified, the raw materials and reagents used in the following examples are commercially available or can be prepared by known methods. The experimental methods in the following examples without specifying specific conditions are usually carried out according to conventional conditions.
[0044] Unless otherwise indicated, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as those generally understood by those skilled in the art. Although the present invention describes only preferred methods and materials, any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein may also be used in the implementation or testing of the present invention. All documents mentioned in this specification are incorporated by reference to disclose and describe the methods and / or materials associated with the documents. In the event of a conflict with any incorporated document, the content of this specification shall prevail.
[0045] The term "antibody" as used herein is used in its broadest sense, including immunoglobulins or other types of molecules comprising one or more antigen-binding domains that specifically bind to an antigen, and are proteins or polypeptides that exhibit binding specificity to a specific antigen. Specific examples of antibodies may include complete antibodies (e.g., classic four-chain antibody molecules) , single-chain antibodies, single-domain antibodies, multispecific antibodies, and the like. Classical antibody molecules are typically tetramers composed of two identical heavy chains and two identical light chains interconnected by disulfide bonds. According to the conservative differences in the amino acid sequences, the heavy chain and the light chain are divided into a variable region (V) located at the amino terminus and a constant region (C) located at the carboxyl terminus. The variable region is used to recognize and bind to the antigen, and the constant region (e.g., Fc fragment) is used to initiate downstream effects, such as antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) . In the variable regions of the heavy and light chains, there are three local regions, respectively, with a higher degree of variation in amino acid composition and arrangement order, which are key positions for antibody-antigen binding, and are therefore also referred to as complementary determining regions (CDRs) . The amino acid sequence of a CDR can be readily determined using art-recognized numbering schemes, such as Kabat, Chothia, IMGT, AbM, or Contact.
[0046] Based on the amino acid sequence of the constant region of the heavy chain of the antibody, antibodies can be divided into five major different types: IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG and IgM. These antibody types can be further divided into subclasses according to the size of the hinge region, the position of the interchain disulfide bonds and the difference in molecular weight, for example, IgG1, IgG2a, IgG2b and IgG3. Based on the difference in the amino acid composition and arrangement of the constant region of the light chain of the antibody, the light chain can be divided into two types: kappa and lambda. The subunit structure and three-dimensional conformation of different classes of immunoglobulins are known in the art.
[0047] "Antigen binding fragment" herein refers to a polypeptide fragment that contains a portion of a complete antibody, such as the antigen binding region or variable region of a complete antibody, and has the property of being able to specifically target CD7, such as Fab, Fab' , Fv fragment, F (ab' ) 2, scFv, di-scFv and / or sdAb, etc. Preferably, it contains at least one CDR of the heavy chain variable region and / or light chain variable region of the antibody; also preferably, it may contain CDR1-3 of the heavy chain variable region and / or CDR1-3 of the light chain variable region. Antigen binding fragments can be prepared by a variety of techniques, including but not limited to proteolytic digestion of complete antibodies, or expression by host cells containing antigen binding fragments. Examples of antigen binding proteins include but are not limited to antibodies, antigen binding fragments, immunoconjugates, multispecific antibodies (e.g., bispecific antibodies) , antibody fragments, antibody derivatives, antibody analogs or fusion proteins, etc., as long as they show the desired antigen binding activity.
[0048] The term “VHH” refers to the variable domain of a heavy-chain-only antibody, derived from camelids (e.g., camels, llamas, alpacas) , which can bind antigen independently, without a paired light chain. VHHs are also commonly referred to as single-domain antibodies or nanobodies.
[0049] The term “specifically binds” or “specifically binding” means that a binding moiety or targeting domain (e.g. antibody, scFv, VHH, or receptor domain) preferentially and measurably binds to a designated antigen or epitope with an affinity of at least 106M-1 (Kd≤1μM) -preferably≥107M-1, more preferably≥108M-1-and does not substantially bind to unrelated or non-target molecules.
[0050] The term "Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) " generally refers to a fusion protein comprising an extracellular domain capable of binding to an antigen and at least one intracellular domain. CAR is a core component of a chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) , which may include an antigen (e.g., a tumor-specific antigen and / or a tumor-associated antigen) binding domain, a transmembrane domain, a co-stimulatory domain, and an intracellular signaling domain. CAR is an engineered receptor that can implant any specific receptor into immune effector cells, especially T cells. In CAR, a scFv fragment or VHH fragment of a monoclonal antibody that specifically recognizes a tumor antigen can be implanted into a T cell or NK cell. A nucleic acid encoding CAR can be introduced into a T cell, NK cell, or NK T cell using, for example, a retroviral vector. In this way, a large number of cancer-specific T cells, NK cells, or NKT cells can be generated for adoptive cell transfer. In the present application, the CAR can be combined with a T cell receptor activation intracellular domain based on the antigen (e.g., BCMA) specificity of the antibody. T cells genetically modified to express CAR can specifically recognize and eliminate malignant cells expressing target antigens. For descriptions of CAR and CAR-T cells, see, for example, Sadelain M, Brentjens R, Riviere I. The basic principles of chimeric antigen receptor design. Cancer Discov. 2013; 3 (4) : 388-398; Turtle CJ, Hudecek M, Jensen MC, Riddell SR. Engineered T cells for anti-cancer therapy. Curr Opin Immunol. 2012; 24 (5) : 633-639; Dotti G, Gottschalk S, Savoldo B, Brenner MK. Design and development of therapy s using chimeric antigen receptor-expressing T cells. Immunol Rev 2014; 257 (1) : 107-126: and WO2013154760, WO2016014789.
[0051] As used herein, the term "treat" generally refers to: (i) preventing the onset of a disease, disorder and / or condition in a patient who may be susceptible to the disease, but has not yet been diagnosed with the disease; (ii) inhibiting the disease, disorder or condition, i.e., curbing its development; and (iii) alleviating the disease, disorder or condition, i.e., causing the disease, disorder and / or condition and / or symptoms associated with the disease, disorder and / or condition to subside.
[0052] In the present application, the term "pharmaceutically acceptable carrier" generally refers to one or more non-toxic materials that do not interfere with the effectiveness of the biological activity of the active ingredient. Such preparations can conventionally contain salts, buffers, preservatives, compatible carriers, and optionally other therapeutic agents. Such pharmaceutically acceptable preparations can also contain compatible solid or liquid fillers, diluents or encapsulating materials suitable for administration to people. Other envisioned carriers, excipients, and / or additives that can be used in the formulations described herein include, for example, flavoring agents, antimicrobial agents, sweeteners, antioxidants, antistatic agents, lipids, protein excipients (such as serum albumin, gelatin, casein) , salt-forming counterions (such as sodium) , etc.
[0053] An “effective amount” of an agent, e.g., a pharmaceutical formulation, cells, or composition, in the context of administration, refers to an amount effective, at dosages / amounts and for periods of time necessary, to achieve a desired result, such as a therapeutic or prophylactic result.
[0054] A “therapeutically effective amount” of an agent, e.g., a pharmaceutical formulation or cells, refers to an amount effective, at dosages and for periods of time necessary, to achieve a desired therapeutic result, such as for treatment of a disease, condition, or disorder, and / or pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic effect of the treatment. The therapeutically effective amount may vary according to factors such as the disease state, age, sex, and weight of the subject, and the populations of cells administered. In some embodiments, the provided methods involve administering the cells and / or compositions at effective amounts, e.g., therapeutically effective amounts.
[0055] As used herein, a “subject” is a mammal, such as a human or other animal, and typically is human. In some embodiments, the subject, e.g., patient, to whom the cells, cell populations, or compositions are administered is a mammal, typically a primate, such as a human. In some embodiments, the primate is a monkey or an ape. The subject can be male or female and can be any suitable age, including infant, juvenile, adolescent, adult, and geriatric subjects.
[0056] In the present application, the term "and / or" should be understood to mean either one of the alternatives or both of the alternatives.
[0057] In this application, the term "comprising" generally means including the features specifically stated, but not excluding other elements.
[0058] In this application, the term "about" generally refers to a variation within the range of0.5%-10%above or below the specified value. For example, the value may vary within a range of0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 2.5%, 3%, 3.5%, 4%, 4.5%, 5%, 5.5%, 6%, 6.5%, 7%, 7.5%, 8%, 8.5%, 9%, 9.5%, or 10%above or below the specified value.
[0059] Unless defined otherwise or clearly indicated by the context, all technical and scientific terms in the present disclosure have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs.
[0060] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of treating 1. A method of treating a disease in a subject in need thereof, comprising:
[0061] administering to an effective amount of a bi-specific molecule to the subject, the bi-specific molecule comprising:
[0062] i) an anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7;
[0063] ii) an anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety which comprises a heavy chain variable domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8, a first heavy chain constant region CH1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 14, a Fc region comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 12, a light chain variable domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10, and a light chain constant domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11, wherein the anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety is linked to the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety.
[0064] The bi-specific antibody can be administered in the form of a pharmaceutical composition which also includes one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers. The routes of administration can include without limitation intravenous, intramuscular, intra-arterial, intrathecal, intracapsular, intraorbital, intracardiac, intradermal, intraperitoneal, transtracheal, subcutaneous, subcuticular, intra-articular, subcapsular, subarachnoid, intraspinal, epidural, intrasternal injection, and infusion.
[0065] In some embodiments, the anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety is linked to the N-or C-terminus of the heavy chain of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety, linked to the C-terminus of the light chain of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety, or inserted between the heavy chain variable domain and the heavy chain constant domain of the heavy chain of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety.
[0066] In some embodiments of the method, the bi-specific molecule comprises one of the following: i) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2; ii) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2; iii) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2; and iv) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6.
[0067] In some embodiments of the method, the disease is an autoimmune disease, which can be selected from the group consisting of: multiple sclerosis (MS) , rheumatoid arthritis (RA) , and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) .
[0068] In some embodiments, the disease is cancer, which can be selected from B-cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, pancreatic cancer, gastric cancer, esophageal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, renal cell carcinoma, head-and-neck tumors, mesothelioma, melanoma, sarcomas, or brain tumors.
[0069] Pharmaceutical compositions can be in the form of sterile aqueous solutions or dispersions. They can also be formulated in a micro-emulsion, liposome, or other ordered structure suitable to high drug concentration.
[0070] The amount of active ingredient which can be combined with a carrier material to produce a single dosage form will vary depending upon the subject being treated and the particular mode of administration and will generally be that amount of the composition which produces a therapeutic effect. Generally, out of one hundred percent, this amount will range from about 0.01%to about 99%of active ingredient in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
[0071] Dosage regimens are adjusted to provide the optimum desired response (e.g., a therapeutic response) . For example, a single bolus can be administered, several divided doses can be administered over time or the dose can be proportionally reduced or increased as indicated by the exigencies of the therapeutic situation. It is especially advantageous to formulate parenteral compositions in dosage unit form for ease of administration and uniformity of dosage. Dosage unit form as used herein refers to physically discrete units suited as unitary dosages for the subjects to be treated; each unit contains a predetermined quantity of active ingredient calculated to produce the desired therapeutic effect in association with the required pharmaceutical carrier. Alternatively, the pharmaceutical composition can be administered as a sustained release formulation, in which case less frequent administration is required.
[0072] The inventors have designed and produced several bsAbs with different geometric configurations. Preliminary in vitro data demonstrate superior T cell-mediated cytotoxicity against CD20+tumor cell lines. Promising in vivo efficacy data from xenograft models shows significant tumor regression at well-tolerated doses. Critically, preliminary toxicology studies in cynomolgus monkeys have shown an improved safety profile compared to commercially-approved molecules.
[0073] The present disclosure is further illustrated by the following examples, which should not be construed as further limiting. The contents of all figures and all references, Genbank sequences, patents and published patent applications cited throughout this application are expressly incorporated herein by reference. Example 1. Production of anti-CD20×CD3 BsAbs
[0074] Bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) in four formats, as specified in Table 1, were constructed using i) AHF43673 (anti-CD3 VHH, and ii) Rituximab (anti-CD20, having the heavy chain variable region, heavy chain constant region with Fc LALA mutation, light chain variable region and light chain constant region) . Table 1. BsAb formats
[0075] The DNA sequences encoding the BsAbs were cloned into pcDNA3.4 expression vectors, and transfected into ExpiCHO-S cells. The recombinantly expressed BsAbs were purified from cell culture supernatants and further characterized.
[0076] The purity and the yield of the BsAbs were summarized in Table 2. Table 2. Purity and yield of bispecific antibodies Example 2. Potent tumor cell killing with lower cytokine release as RTX*F43673-F29 by TDCC (T cell Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity) assay
[0077] The T cell dependent cellular cytotoxicity (TDCC) of the purified bispecific antibody was evaluated, along with cytokine release from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in the TDCC assay.
[0078] Briefly, 50μL of target cells (CD20+Jeko-1 (ATCC CRL-3006) , 2×105cells / mL, resulting in 1×104cells / well) were incubated with 50μL of serially diluted samples for 30 minutes. Then, 100μL of human Pan T cells (CD3+, isolated from PBMCs using the Human T Cell Isolation Kit (Stemcell, Cat#17951) , at 5×105cells / mL, yielding 5×104 cells / well) were added to achieve an effector-to-target (E: T) ratio of5: 1. The mixture was co-cultured at 37℃ under 5%CO2for 24 hours. After centrifugation, the supernatant was collected to assess TDCC using the LDH Cytotoxicity Assay Kit (Roche, Cat#11644793001) , and cytokine releases (TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-2) via HTRF technology using relevant kits (Add&Read Human TNF alpha Quantitative Detection Kit (Vazyme, Cat#DD2704-C-03) , Add&Read Human IFN gamma Quantitative Detection Kit (Vazyme, Cat#DD2706-03) , and Add&Read Human IL2 Quantitative Detection Kit (Vazyme, Cat#DD2705-03) ) .
[0079] As shown in Figures 1 to 8, all tested antibodies exhibited TDCC in a dose-dependent manner. Notably, the TDCC activity of RTX*F43673-F29 was comparable to that of the reference antibody, Glofitamab. Moreover, RTX*F43673-F29 induced significantly lower levels of cytokine release (TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-2) compared to Glofitamab. Example 3. In vivo anti-tumor efficacy of bispecific with different geometries in a Jeko-1 xenograft model using human PBMC reconstituted mice
[0080] Female C-NKG mice (6–8 weeks old) , purchased from Cyagen Biosciences Inc., were housed under a 12-hour light / 12-hour dark cycle with free access to food and water. On day–16, each mouse received a tail vein injection of5×106human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in 200μL. On day–14, 5×106Jeko-1 tumor cells resuspended in 200μL of a 1: 1 mixture with Matrigel were implanted subcutaneously. By day 0, the average tumor volume had reached approximately 140 mm3. Mice with successful reconstitution of hCD45+cells were then randomly assigned to eight treatment groups and administered intravenous injections of either vehicle (physiological saline) , AHF43673 hIgG1 Fc (LALA) (0.27 mg / kg) (SEQ ID NO: 12) , Epcoritamab (0.5 mg / kg) , Glofitamab (0.67 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F28 (0.6 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F29 (0.6 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F30 (0.6 mg / kg) , or RTX*F43673-F32 (0.6 mg / kg) . Dosing was repeated on days 4, 7, and 11. Tumor dimensions were measured twice weekly using calipers, and tumor volume was calculated as (Length×Width2) / 2. Body weight was also recorded twice per week.
[0081] Tumor growth inhibition in the different treatment groups was calculated based on tumor volume at day 14 in female C-NKG mice bearing Jeko-1 xenografts. Results are summarized in Table 3.
[0082] Tumor growth curves and body weight changes across treatment groups are shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, respectively. Data points represent group means, and error bars indicate the standard error of the mean (SEM) .
[0083] Significant tumor growth inhibition was observed in mice treated with Epcoritamab (0.5 mg / kg) , Glofitamab (0.67 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F28 (0.6 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F29 (0.6 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F30 (0.6 mg / kg) , and RTX*F43673-F32 (0.6 mg / kg) compared to the vehicle control group (one-way ANOVA; all groups compared to vehicle; ****P<0.0001, ***P<0.001) . No significant change in body weight was detected in any treated groups. Although among which, RTX*F43673-F28 / F29 / F32 and Glofitamab were chosen for further dose dependent in vivo assays. Table 3. Tumor growth inhibition calculation Example 4. In vivo dose dependent anti-tumor efficacy of bispecific with different geometries in a Jeko-1 xenograft model using human PBMC reconstituted mice
[0084] Female C-NKG mice (6–8 weeks old) were obtained from Cyagen Biosciences Inc. and housed under a 12 h / 12 h light / dark cycle with free access to food and water. On day–16, each mouse received a tail vein injection of5×106human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in 200μL. On day–14, a total of5×106Jeko-1 tumor cells suspended in 200μL of a 1: 1 Matrigel mixture were implanted subcutaneously. By day 0, the average tumor volume reached approximately 120 mm3. Mice with successful hCD45+cell reconstitution were randomly assigned to nine groups and administered intravenous injections of the following: AHF43673 hIgG1 Fc (LALA) (0.027 mg / kg) , Glofitamab (0.067 mg / kg) , Glofitamab (0.222 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F28 (0.06 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F28 (0.2 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F29 (0.06 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F29 (0.2 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F32 (0.06 mg / kg) , and RTX*F43673-F32 (0.2 mg / kg) . Additional intravenous doses were administered on days 4, 7, and 11. Tumor size was measured twice weekly using calipers, and tumor volume was calculated as (Length×Width2) / 2. Body weight was monitored twice per week.
[0085] Tumor growth inhibition for each treatment group was evaluated based on tumor volume at day 14 in female C-NKG mice bearing Jeko-1 xenografts. The results are summarized in Table 4.
[0086] Tumor growth curves and body weight changes are presented in Fig. 11 and Fig. 12, respectively. Data points represent group means, and error bars indicate the standard error of the mean (SEM) .
[0087] Significant tumor growth inhibition was observed in all treatment groups-Glofitamab (0.067 mg / kg) , Glofitamab (0.222 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F28 (0.06 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F28 (0.2 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F29 (0.06 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F29 (0.2 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F32 (0.06 mg / kg) , and RTX*F43673-F32 (0.2 mg / kg) -compared to the AHF43673 hIgG1 Fc (LALA) control group (one-way ANOVA; all treatments vs. control; ****P<0.0001, ***P<0.001) . No significant change in body weight was detected in any treated groups. Although among which, RTX*F43673-F29 and Glofitamab were chosen for further titrate down in vivo assays. Table 4. Tumor growth inhibition calculation Example 5. In vivo anti-tumor efficacy of RTX*F43673-F29 compared with glofitamab in a Jeko-1 xenograft model using human PBMC reconstituted mice
[0088] Female C-NKG mice (6–8 weeks old) were obtained from Cyagen Biosciences Inc. and maintained under a 12 h / 12 h light / dark cycle with ad libitum access to food and water. On day–19, each mouse was inoculated via tail vein injection with 5×106human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in a volume of200μL. On day–17, a total of5×106Jeko-1 tumor cells resuspended in 200μL of a 1: 1 Matrigel mixture were implanted subcutaneously. By day 0, the average tumor volume reached approximately 250 mm3. Mice exhibiting successful hCD45+cell reconstitution were randomly allocated into seven groups and received intravenous injections of the following: AHF43673 hIgG1 Fc (LALA) (0.027 mg / kg) , Glofitamab (0.0067 mg / kg) , Glofitamab (0.022 mg / kg) , Glofitamab (0.067 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F29 (0.006 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F29 (0.02 mg / kg) , and RTX*F43673-F29 (0.06 mg / kg) . Additional intravenous doses were administered on days 3, 7, and 10. Tumor size was measured twice weekly using calipers, and tumor volume was calculated as (Length×Width2) / 2. Body weight was also recorded twice per week.
[0089] Tumor growth inhibition for each treatment group was assessed based on tumor volume at day 13 in female C-NKG mice bearing Jeko-1 xenografts. The results are summarized in Table 5.
[0090] Tumor growth curves and body weight changes are shown in Fig. 13 and Fig. 14, respectively. Data points represent group means, and error bars indicate the standard error of the mean (SEM) .
[0091] Significant tumor growth inhibition was observed in all treatment groups-Glofitamab (0.0067 mg / kg) , Glofitamab (0.022 mg / kg) , Glofitamab (0.067 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F29 (0.006 mg / kg) , RTX*F43673-F29 (0.02 mg / kg) , and RTX*F43673-F29 (0.06 mg / kg) -compared to the AHF43673 hIgG1 Fc (LALA) control group (one-way ANOVA; all treatments vs. control; ****P<0.0001, **P<0.01, *P<0.05) . No significant change in body weight was detected in any treated groups. Table 5. Tumor growth inhibition calculation Example 6. B-cell depletion and parallel PK study in hCD20&hCD3EDG transgenic mice
[0092] A parallel study investigating B-cell depletion and pharmacokinetics (PK) was conducted in female hCD20&hCD3EDG mice (6–8 weeks old) , obtained from Biocytogen. The animals were housed under a 12 h / 12 h light / dark cycle with food and water available ad libitum. On day 0, mice were randomized into six treatment groups (N=3) and administered a single intravenous dose of Glofitamab (0.0067, 0.067, or 0.67 mg / kg) or RTX*F43673-F29 (0.006, 0.06, or 0.6 mg / kg) . Serum samples were collected at pre-dose, day 1, day 3, day 7, and day 14 post-dose, with B-cell counts quantified by flow cytometry. For the high-dose groups-Glofitamab (0.67 mg / kg) and RTX*F43673-F29 (0.6 mg / kg) -additional satellite PK groups (n=3) were included. Serial blood samples were collected at 0.5 h, 2 h, 4 h, 6 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h, 96 h, 168 h, 240 h, 336 h, 504 h, 672 h, and 840 h post-dose. Serum drug concentrations were measured using ELISA, and PK parameters including AUClast, Cmax, T1 / 2, and CL were derived using Phoenix WinNonlin.
[0093] The B-cell depletion results were shown in Fig. 15.
[0094] The pharmacokinetic analysis results were summarized in Table 6.
[0095] Concentration-time curve were shown in Fig. 16. Results are plotted as mean concentrations±SD (n=3) .
[0096] All tested doses of Glofitamab and RTX*F43673-F29 resulted in reduced peripheral B-cell counts by day 1 post-dose. Furthermore, the high dose of Glofitamab and both the medium and high doses of RTX*F43673-F29 maintained B cells at low levels through day 7, indicating applicability in depleting B cells and the treatment of autoimmune diseases driven by auto-reactive B cells and autoreactive antibodies secreted by them, including but not limited to multiple sclerosis (MS) , rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) , etc.
[0097] The PK parameters for Glofitamab (0.67 mg / kg) and RTX*F43673-F29 (0.60 mg / kg) were as follows: T1 / 2=104.7 h and 186.1 h; Cmax=47.40 nmol / L and 13.07 nmol / L; AUClast=1136.96 h·nmol / L and 211.41 h·nmol / L; and CL=2.6 mL / h / kg and 9.0 mL / h / kg, respectively. Table 6. Pharmacokinetic analysis in hCD20&hCD3EDG Mice Example 7. Single-dose toxicity and parallel TK study in cynomolgus monkey
[0098] Four healthy adult cynomolgus monkeys were stratified by body weight into two groups (n=2 per group, each comprising one male and one female) , receiving either Glofitamab (0.1 mg / kg) or RTX*F43673-F29 (0.0898 mg / kg) . Each animal was administered a single slow intravenous bolus injection at a volume of 1 mL / kg on Day 1 and monitored for 5 weeks.
[0099] Clinical observations were recorded twice daily. Body weight, body temperature, and food consumption were assessed weekly. Rectal temperature was measured on Day 1 and weekly thereafter. Ophthalmic examinations were conducted pre-dose and on Day 36. Lead-II ECGs were recorded on Day 1 (post-dose) and Day 36. Hematology, coagulation, and blood biochemistry parameters were evaluated pre-dose, at 24 h (hematology only) , and on Days 4, 8, 22, and 36; urinalysis was performed pre-dose and on Day 36. Lymphocyte subsets were analyzed pre-dose, at 24 h, and on Days 4, 8, 15, and 22. Complement and immunoglobulin levels were measured pre-dose, on Day 15, and Day 36. Cytokine profiling was conducted pre-dose, at 4 h, 24 h, and on Days 4, 8, 22, and 36. For toxicokinetics (TK) and anti-drug antibody (ADA) assessment, serum samples were collected pre-dose and at 0.5, 2, 4, 6, 24, 48, 72, 96, 168, 240, 336, 504, 672, and 840 h post-dose. Drug concentrations and ADA were quantified using ELISA, and pharmacokinetic parameters including AUClast, Cmax, and T1 / 2were derived using Phoenix WinNonlin.
[0100] The key findings are shown in Table 7~8 and Figs. 17~19 and summarized as follows:
[0101] Clinical Observations: Transient clinical signs (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea) were observed in both treatment groups but resolved rapidly after Day 3.
[0102] Hematology and Blood Biochemistry: a. Glofitamab group: increases in RET (D8) , NEUT (D2) , MONO (D4) , BASO (D4) , FbgC (D4) , AST (D4) , ALT (D4) , CK (D4) , TBIL (D4) , TG (D4) , LDH (D4) , CRP (D4) ; decreases in WBC (D4) , LYMPH (D2) , PLT (D4) . b. RTX*F43673-F29 group: increases in RET (D8) , NEUT (D2) , MONO (D4) , BASO (D4) , ALT (D4) , CK (D4) , CRP (D4) ; decreases in WBC (D4) , LYMPH (D2) , PLT (D4) . Most changes returned to baseline after Day 8. Cytokine Release: A transient elevation in multiple cytokines-including IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-6, IL-1RA, MCP, and MIP-1β-was observed at 4 h post-dosing. B and T Cell Dynamics: c. B cells (CD19+) decreased markedly by 24 h post-dose in both groups and remained low through Day 8. d. CD4+and CD8+T cells decreased significantly at 24 h, recovered or exceeded baseline after Day 4. e. At 24 h, most peripheral CD8+T cells exhibited an activated phenotype: approximately 80%were CD69+, returning to baseline by Day 4; CD25+ expression peaked on Day 4 and declined thereafter. These changes reflect expected pharmacological activity.
[0103] PK and ADA: The PK parameters for Glofitamab and RTX*F43673-F29 were as follows: T1 / 2=2.68 h and 2.51 h; Cmax=7.98 nmol / L and 2.94 nmol / L; AUClast=24.23 h·nmol / L and 7.56 h·nmol / L, respectively. ADA was detected from 336 h in the Glofitamab group and from 168 h in the RTX*F43673-F29 group.
[0104] These data showed the lead BsAb, RTX*F43673-F29, is similar to the clinical benchmark Glofitamab, in terms of safety profile, PK and PD effect in activating T cells and depleting B cells in vivo. Notably, RTX*F43673-F29 preliminarily showed a more robust depletion of B cells in vivo than Glofitamab, as illustrated in Figure 17A These findings indicate the strong potential applicability of RTX*F43673-F29, as well as other bi-specific antibodies included in the application, for the treatment of autoimmune diseases driven by auto-reactive B cells and the autoreactive antibodies secreted by them, including but not limited to multiple sclerosis (MS) , rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) , etc. Table 7. In vivo cyno monkey cytokine release Table 8. Pharmacokinetic analysis in cynomolgus monkey
[0105] The sequences used in the present application are set forth below. REFERENCES [1] Brinkmann, U., &Kontermann, R. E. (2017) . The making of bispecific antibodies. mAbs, 9 (2) , 182-212. [2] Huehls, A. M., Coupet, T. A., &Sentman, C. L. (2015) . Bispecific T-cell engagers for cancer immunotherapy. Immunology and Cell Biology, 93 (3) , 290-296. [3] Pierpont, T. M., Limper, C. B., &Richards, K. L. (2018) . Past, Present, and Future of Rituximab-The World’s First Oncology Monoclonal Antibody Therapy. Frontiers in Oncology, 8, 163. [4] McLaughlin, P., et al. (1998) . Rituximab chimeric anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody therapy for relapsed indolent lymphoma: half of patients respond to a four-dose treatment program. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 16 (8) , 2825-2833. [5] Topp, M. S., et al. (2011) . Targeted therapy with the T-cell-engaging antibody blinatumomab of chemotherapy-refractory minimal residual disease in B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients results in high response rate and prolonged leukemia-free survival. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 29 (18) , 2493-2498. [6] Budde, L. E., et al. (2022) . Mosunetuzumab with polatuzumab vedotin in relapsed / refractory aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma: A dose-expansion phase 1b / 2 study. Blood. [7] Hutchings, M., et al. (2021) . Glofitamab, a novel, bivalent CD20-targeting T-cell-engaging bispecific antibody, induces durable complete remissions in relapsed or refractory B-cell lymphoma: A phase I trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 39 (18) , 1959-1970. [8] Thieblemont, C., et al. (2021) . Epcoritamab, a novel, subcutaneous CD3xCD20 bispecific T-cell-engaging antibody, in relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma: dose expansion in a phase I / II trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology. [9] Shimabukuro-Vornhagen, A., et al. (2018) . Cytokine release syndrome. Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer, 6 (1) , 56.
[0010] Klein, C., et al. (2012) . Progress in overcoming the chain association issue in bispecific heterodimeric IgG antibodies. mAbs, 4 (6) , 653-663.
[0011] Ellerman, D. (2019) . Bispecific T-cell engagers: Towards a modular immuno-oncology toolbox. Current Opinion in Biotechnology, 65, 9-16. Although the present invention and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.
Claims
1.A method of treating a disease in a subject in need thereof, comprising:administering to the subject an effective amount of a bi-specific antibody to the subject, the bi-specific antibody comprising:i) an anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7;ii) an anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety which comprises a heavy chain variable domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8, a first heavy chain constant region CH1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 14, a Fc region comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 12, a light chain variable domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10, and a light chain constant domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11,wherein the anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety is linked to the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety.2.The method of claim 1, wherein the anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety is linked to:i)the N-terminus of the heavy chain variable domain of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety;ii) the C-terminus of the Fc region of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety; oriii) the C-terminus of the light chain constant domain of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety;or the anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety is inserted between the first heavy chain constant region CH1 and the Fc region of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety.3.The method of claim 1, wherein the bi-specific antibody comprises one of the following:i) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2;ii) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2;iii) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2; andiv) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6.4.The method of claim 3, wherein the bi-specific antibody comprises a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.5.A method of treating a disease in a subject in need thereof, comprising:administering to an effective amount of a bi-specific antibody to the subject, the bi-specific antibody comprising a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.6.The method of any of claims 1-5, wherein the disease is a B cell-mediated disease.7.The method of any of claims 6, wherein the disease is an autoimmune disease.8.The method of any of claims 6, wherein the disease is selected from the group consisting of: multiple sclerosis (MS) , rheumatoid arthritis (RA) , and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) .9.The method of any of claims 1-5, wherein the disease is cancer.10.The method of claim 8, wherein the cancer is selected from the group consisting of: B-cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, pancreatic cancer, gastric cancer, esophageal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, renal cell carcinoma, head-and-neck tumors, mesothelioma, melanoma, sarcomas, and brain tumors.11.Use of a bi-specific antibody in the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of a disease, wherein the bi-specific antibody comprising:i) an anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7;ii) an anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety which comprises a heavy chain variable domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8, a first heavy chain constant region CH1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 14, a Fc region comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 12, a light chain variable domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10, and a light chain constant domain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11, wherein the anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety is linked to the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety, and wherein the disease is a B cell-driven disease or cancer.12.The use of claim 11, wherein the B cell-driven disease is an autoimmune disease, which is selected from the group consisting of: multiple sclerosis (MS) , rheumatoid arthritis (RA) , and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) .13.The use of claim 11, wherein the cancer is selected from the group consisting of: B-cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, cervical cancer, pancreatic cancer, gastric cancer, esophageal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, renal cell carcinoma, head-and-neck tumors, mesothelioma, melanoma, sarcomas, and brain tumors.14.The use of claim 11, wherein the anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety is linked to:i)the N-terminus of the heavy chain variable domain of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety;ii) the C-terminus of the Fc region of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety; oriii) the C-terminus of the light chain constant domain of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety;or the anti-CD3 single domain antibody moiety is inserted between the first heavy chain constant region CH1 and the Fc region of the anti-CD20 antigen binding antibody moiety.15.The use of claim 11, wherein the bi-specific antibody comprises one of the following:i) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2;ii) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2;iii) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2; andiv) a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6.16.The use of claim 11, wherein the bi-specific antibody comprises a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2.