Bispecifika

Bispecifika is an adjective used in the life sciences to describe molecules that have two distinct binding specificities. In the context of antibodies and related biologics, a bispecific (bispecifika in some languages) binds two different antigens or two different epitopes on the same antigen. This dual binding enables new ways to regulate cells and tissues, such as bringing two cells into contact or simultaneously targeting two molecular pathways.

Most widely studied bispecifics are engineered antibodies or antibody-like constructs. They can be full-length IgG-like molecules or smaller formats built from single-chain variable fragments (scFv) and other domains. Common formats include bispecific antibodies that can recruit immune effector cells to target cells (for example, linking a T cell to a cancer cell) and those that block two separate disease-relevant pathways. A well-known example is blinatumomab, a bispecific T-cell engager that binds CD19 on B cells and CD3 on T cells to promote the destruction of malignant B cells. Other examples include antibodies that simultaneously target receptor tyrosine kinases or combine vascular or inflammatory targets with tumor targets.

Applications span oncology, ophthalmology, and autoimmune diseases, among others. In cancer, bispecifics aim to improve specificity and effectiveness by directing immune mechanisms or by dual inhibitions to prevent escape. Manufacturing bispecifics is technically demanding due to issues like stability, correct chain pairing, and potential immunogenicity. Safety concerns include cytokine release syndrome and off-target effects, necessitating careful clinical development and monitoring.