Multivalent DR5-Binding Polypeptide Formulations

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current treatments for cancer using TRAIL-induced apoptosis are limited by the need for clustering of DR5 receptors for efficient cell death, and there is a lack of stable formulations of DR5-binding polypeptides that can effectively agonize DR5 signaling for direct cell death.

Innovation Solution

Development of stable liquid and lyophilized pharmaceutical formulations of multivalent DR5-binding polypeptides, comprising specific amino acid sequences and buffer components, which can effectively agonize DR5 signaling and induce direct cell death.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If TRAIL-induced apoptosis is used for cancer treatment, then cell death can be induced, but clustering of DR5 receptors is required for efficient cell death which limits treatment effectiveness

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecell death induction efficiencyVSAvoidreceptor clustering requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention segments the DR5 receptor interaction into multiple binding sites on a single polypeptide molecule. The multivalent DR5-binding polypeptide contains multiple VHH domains that can bind to different DR5 receptors simultaneously, eliminating the need for natural receptor clustering while still triggering apoptosis effectively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention merges multiple DR5-binding VHH domains into a single polypeptide chain, creating a multivalent molecule that can engage multiple DR5 receptors at once. This consolidation allows the therapy to overcome the clustering requirement by bringing multiple binding sites together in one molecular structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If stable formulations of DR5-binding polypeptides are developed, then direct cell death can be agonized, but formulation stability and minimal aggregation must be maintained over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveformulation stabilityVSAvoidformulation shelf life
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention optimizes formulation parameters including pH (5.0-7.0 range), ionic strength, and temperature conditions to minimize polypeptide aggregation. Specific buffer compositions and excipients are selected to maintain the polypeptide in a stable monomeric state throughout the shelf life period.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The invention employs lyophilization (freeze-drying) to create a stable solid formulation that can be stored for extended periods without degradation. The lyophilized product reconstitutes upon contact with aqueous solutions, providing a stable long-term storage solution that maintains polypeptide activity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS20250332098A1Formulations of DR5 Binding Polypeptides
Publication Date: 2025.10.30 INHIBRX BIOSCIENCES INC

AI summary

Provided herein are formulations of DR5-binding polypeptides. Uses of the DR5-binding polypeptides are also provided.