The CardioGenics-linked beads are specially designed as an alternative to the time consuming process of extracting antibody-based drugs from production media using stationary chromatography.
In-PharmaTechnologist spoke to Yahad Gawad, MD, CEO of CardioGenics, who said: “The shortened exposure to the harsh antibody-elution conditions coupled with the ease of manipulation of magnetic beads is expected to change the landcape of antibody extraction.”
The magnetic beads’ ability to double antibody yields is made possible by way of coupling the beads with either protein A or protein G - both being universal binders to the majority of classes of antibodies – and replacing rational chromatography, where elusion is carried out in small quantities.
Instead, the magnetic beads allow elusion to take place in batch mode enabling the extraction of more antibody at an increased rate which, Gawad believes, could have significant implications for manufacturers.
He suggested: “The CardioGenics-linked beads offer one of the most innovative and nearly seamless ways to increase antibody drug yields using traditional culturing media,” adding that “Their use could have a significant impact on production costs and capital outlays.”
The beads will be commercialised in partnership with Merck KGaA’s Merck Chimie unit which, CardioGenics claims, will provide a potential market worth $350m a year based on the German firm’s existing client base.
The first shipments are already being distributed to manufacturers of medical laboratory analyses, and are due to reach clients in mid-September this year.