Story perspectives

New Antibody Design Method Targets Emerging Pathogens

11/6/2025

Summary

Story summary

Researchers used RFdiffusion and OrthoRep to design de novo single-domain antibodies (VHHs) with precise binding.
The approach enables targeting viral and bacterial epitopes previously inaccessible and enhances binding through in vivo evolution.
The study demonstrated engagement with C. difficile toxin B and the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, validated by cryo-EM.
These findings suggest these methods could accelerate therapeutic antibody development against emerging pathogens.

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Story summary

Researchers used RFdiffusion and OrthoRep to design de novo single-domain antibodies (VHHs) with precise binding.
The approach enables targeting viral and bacterial epitopes previously inaccessible and enhances binding through in vivo evolution.
The study demonstrated engagement with C. difficile toxin B and the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, validated by cryo-EM.
These findings suggest these methods could accelerate therapeutic antibody development against emerging pathogens.