IL-18 Binding Molecule Free IL-18 Detection Specificity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for diagnosing and treating IL-18-associated diseases are inadequate due to the inability to specifically detect free IL-18 levels in body fluids, as existing antibodies are unspecific and detect total IL-18 levels, including bound forms, which is insufficient for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Innovation Solution
Development of IL-18 binding molecules, specifically IL-18BP or antibodies that selectively bind to free IL-18 without binding to IL-18 bound in complexes, allowing for precise detection and treatment of IL-18-associated diseases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ELISA assays with conventional antibodies are used to detect IL-18 levels, then total IL-18 levels can be measured, but the measurement precision is insufficient for accurate diagnosis because the antibodies bind to both free and bound IL-18 forms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and isolates the binding site on IL-18 that is specifically accessible only when IL-18 is in its free form, not bound to IL-18BP. By targeting this specific epitope with engineered antibodies, the assay selectively detects free IL-18 only, separating the detection signal from the bound form that would interfere with diagnostic accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by designing antibodies with specific binding characteristics targeted at a particular location on the IL-18 molecule - the epitope exposed on free IL-18 but hidden when bound to IL-18BP. This localized binding specificity enables the assay to distinguish between free and bound forms based on the local accessibility of the target site.
2Measurement precision
If conventional antibodies are used that bind to IL-18, then the assay can detect IL-18 presence, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple antibodies and complex assay protocols to differentiate free and bound forms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the IL-18 detection function into two distinct components: a capturing antibody that selectively binds free IL-18 at a specific epitope, and a detection system that measures only the captured free IL-18. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex separation procedures or multiple antibody combinations, simplifying the overall assay protocol while maintaining high precision for free IL-18 detection.
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
Enables effective diagnosis and treatment of IL-18-associated diseases by specifically targeting free IL-18, reducing its binding to the receptor and providing therapeutic benefits, particularly in conditions like COPD, by accurately measuring free IL-18 levels in body fluids.
Implementation Method 1
antibodies specific for free IL-18 and IL-18 Binding Protein (IL-18BP) for use in such treatments and for the diagnosis of the indications
Implementation Method 2
IL-18 binding molecules, particularly (1) IL-18BP, and/or (2) antibodies, which are specific for free IL-18 and do not cross-react with IL-18 bound in a complex
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides means and methods for treating Interleukin 18 (IL-18)-associated diseases and disorders. In particular, the present invention discloses antibodies specific for free IL-18 and IL-18 Binding Protein (IL-18BP) for use in such treatments and for the diagnosis of the indications.