Genome Variations Annihilate Drug Effects
- Variations in an individual's genome can render certain antibody-based therapies ineffective, according to a study published December 17, 2025, in Science Translational Medicine.Researchers at the University of Basel...
- The human genome differs between individuals in thousands of locations.These differences can alter the structure of proteins, impacting how well antibodies - designed to recognize and bind to...
- Antibody-based therapies function by specifically recognizing and attaching to certain structures within the body.
Single Amino Acid Variations Can Confer Resistance to Antibody Therapies, Study Finds
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Published December 20, 2025
Genetic Differences Impact Antibody Treatment Effectiveness
Variations in an individual’s genome can render certain antibody-based therapies ineffective, according to a study published December 17, 2025, in Science Translational Medicine.Researchers at the University of Basel found that single amino acid changes in the target regions of proteins can prevent antibodies from binding effectively.
The human genome differs between individuals in thousands of locations.These differences can alter the structure of proteins, impacting how well antibodies – designed to recognize and bind to specific protein structures – function. Antibody therapies are used to treat a wide range of conditions, including cancer, rheumatic diseases, and multiple sclerosis.
How Antibody Therapies Work
Antibody-based therapies function by specifically recognizing and attaching to certain structures within the body. This binding action can than deliver active substances to precise locations, enhancing treatment efficacy. However, if the target structure is altered due to genetic variation, the antibody may be unable to bind, rendering the therapy ineffective.
Implications for Treatment and Drug development
While the proportion of patients who don’t respond to antibody therapies is currently relatively small, the University of Basel researchers emphasize the importance of considering genetic factors during drug development.Understanding these genetic influences could lead to more personalized and effective treatment strategies.
“when therapy does not work, doctors should keep this in mind,” stated study co-author Lukas Jeker, as reported by Science Translational Medicine. Genetic testing could possibly identify patients who are less likely to benefit from certain antibody therapies, allowing clinicians to select alternative treatments and avoid unnecessary side effects.
Further research is needed to determine the prevalence of these resistance-conferring genetic variations across different populations and diseases. Developing methods for rapid and cost-effective genetic screening could become crucial for optimizing antibody therapy outcomes.