Abstract

Roche's Approach to Discover, Design, Develop and Deliver Next Generation Protein Therapeutics

Stefan Weigand, Head of Large Molecule Research, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd

Biologics have become a key component in the treatment of various life-threatening diseases. The majority of these drugs are classical monoclonal antibodies. In order to discover, design, develop and deliver differentiated, monoclonal antibodies, Roche's strategy is based on the identification of the best possible binder and engineering technologies that allow for tailored solutions for the biological problem at hand. ADCC-enhancement, bi-specifics for multi-pathway-inhibition, specific tumor-targeting of pharmacophores and blood-brain-barrier crossing are examples for successfully engineered mabs and fusion proteins. In this presentation, I will describe Roche's strategies to discover and design such molecules, give examples but will also address challenges for technical development.