Developing therapeutic monoclonal antibodies for ESKAPE pathogens

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents one of the greatest healthcare challenges on the early part of the 21st century. The ESKAPE group of bacterial pathogens epitomize the problem, with the emergence and maintenance of a group of pathogens from which multi-drug resistance (MDR) and extensive-drug resistance (XDR) has become widespread. We need new approaches to treat and control infections caused by this group of organisms. Here, working in partnership with industry we will generate and screen panels of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against two key ESKAPE pathogens. We will generate a collection of organisms associated with disease from various centers around the world and immunize mice with antigenic components of these organisms. After sorting B-cells and cloning the variable region we will express a number of mAbs in yeast. These antibodies will be screened against the target antigens and the surface of the organisms to assess host range and functional capacity.