DKK1 Antibodies Block LRP5/6 to Stimulate Bone Formation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current therapies for bone loss conditions such as osteoporosis primarily inhibit bone resorption rather than stimulating new bone formation, and are often associated with undesirable side effects.

Innovation Solution

Development of novel DKK1 inhibitors and combinations of DKK1 and sclerostin inhibitors to stimulate bone anabolism, including the use of antibodies that bind to DKK1 and block its interaction with LRP5/6, thereby enhancing Wnt signaling and promoting bone formation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If current therapies for bone loss are used, then bone resorption is inhibited, but new bone formation is not stimulated and side effects occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebone formation rateVSAvoidside effects
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses DKK1 antibodies as intermediary molecules that specifically bind to DKK1 protein, preventing it from interacting with LRP5/6 receptors. This intermediary approach blocks the inhibitory pathway without directly interfering with bone cells, thereby stimulating bone formation while avoiding the side effects associated with direct bone cell manipulation methods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the biochemical parameter of DKK1 activity by introducing antibodies that alter its binding properties. By changing the interaction parameters between DKK1 and its receptors through antibody binding, the system shifts from an inhibitory state to an anabolic state, promoting bone formation without the harmful effects of conventional therapies

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If DKK1 inhibitors are used to stimulate bone anabolism, then bone building increases, but the complexity of the treatment regimen increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebone building rateVSAvoidtreatment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines DKK1 inhibition with existing bone loss treatments into unified therapeutic regimens. By merging the mechanism of DKK1 antibodies with conventional therapies, the treatment achieves enhanced bone anabolism while streamlining the overall treatment approach rather than adding separate complex interventions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The DKK1 antibodies developed in this patent have broad applicability across multiple bone loss conditions including osteoporosis, osteopenia, and fracture repair. This multi-functionality reduces treatment complexity by providing a single therapeutic agent that addresses various bone disorders through the same mechanism, eliminating the need for condition-specific treatment protocols

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The described approach effectively increases bone building and accelerates fracture repair, offering a potential treatment for osteoporosis and other bone disorders with improved efficacy and reduced side effects.

Implementation Method 1

antibodies that bind to DKK1 and block its interaction with LRP5/6

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAntibody-antigen binding:

Data Source

PatentUS12297260B2DKK1 antibodies and methods of use
Publication Date: 2025.05.13 AMGEN INC
  • US12297260B2 patent drawing
  • US12297260B2 patent drawing
  • US12297260B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides antibodies and immunologically functional fragments thereof that specifically bind DKK1 polypeptides. Methods for preparing such antibodies or fragments thereof as well as physiologically acceptable compositions containing the antibodies or fragments are also provided. Use of the antibodies and fragments to treat various diseases are also disclosed.