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SERVICES - GPCR antigens

Raising and developing antibodies against GPCRs is a technical challenge. Common problems are
  • Poor immunogenicity of proteins that are largely buried in the membrane.
  • Low receptor density of membrane proteins in cell membranes.
  • Difficulty to obtain the antigen in a pure form and in sufficient amounts.
  • High degree of sequence homology between human and mouse genes.
  • Antibodies against GPCR derived peptides rarely recognize native receptors.
M-fold Biotech's proprietary M-FOLD™ technology is able to deliver the required amounts of highly pure GPCR antigens. To capitalize on this asset, the company set up a new business unit "GPCR antibodies" early in 2005. These activities are backed by encouraging results obtained with industry partners that used GPCRs protein provided by M-fold Biotech to successfully generate GPCR antibodies.

M-fold Biotech offers GPCR antibody services to interested partners. The following collaboration options are offered:

Option 1. Antigens “For research only“, non-exclusive

For antibody generation by customer. Antibodies may not be used commercially. Terms:
  • Customers provides GPCR sequence
  • M-fold Biotech work includes:
  • Cloning, expression
  • Refolding, purification
  • Reconstitution / formulation of antigen
  • Deliverables:
  • Antigen in different formulations (reconstituted, solubilized)
  • Optional:
  • Antibody characterization
  • Affinity, Selectivity, Biological Function (cell-based assay)
  • Service fee based on FTE will be charged


Option 2. Antigens "For research only", exclusive

M-fold Biotech will not deliver the same GPCR to other customers

  • Conditions as above
  • Annual exclusivity fee charged


Option 3. Antigens "For commercial use", exclusive

  • Conditions as in Option 2.
  • In addition clinical milestone and royalty payments will be charged
  • Upgrade from option 2 to Option 3 possible at any time

We also offer custom antibody production together with our partners.

For all business requests, please contact us directly.

For more information on GPCR antigens and antibodies download the Factsheet GPCR Antibodies (pdf, 198 kB)



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