U.S. patent application number 15/598735 was filed with the patent office on 2018-04-12 for humanized anti-factor d antibodies and uses thereof.
The applicant listed for this patent is GENENTECH, INC.. Invention is credited to Arthur HUANG, Robert KELLEY, Henry LOWMAN, Menno VAN LOOKEREN CAMPAGNE, Charles WINTER.
Application Number | 20180100024 15/598735 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40999836 |
Filed Date | 2018-04-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180100024 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
HUANG; Arthur ; et
al. |
April 12, 2018 |
HUMANIZED ANTI-FACTOR D ANTIBODIES AND USES THEREOF
Abstract
The invention relates to anti-Factor D antibodies, their nucleic
acid and amino acid sequences, the cells and vectors that harbor
these antibodies and their production and their use in the
preparation of compositions and medicaments for treatment of
diseases and disorders associated with excessive or uncontrolled
complement activation. These antibodies are useful for diagnostics,
prophylaxis and treatment of disease.
Inventors: |
HUANG; Arthur; (Oakland,
CA) ; KELLEY; Robert; (San Bruno, CA) ;
LOWMAN; Henry; (El Granada, CA) ; VAN LOOKEREN
CAMPAGNE; Menno; (San Francisco, CA) ; WINTER;
Charles; (Belmont, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
GENENTECH, INC. |
South San Francisco |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
40999836 |
Appl. No.: |
15/598735 |
Filed: |
May 18, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14033175 |
Sep 20, 2013 |
9676868 |
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15598735 |
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|
13591755 |
Aug 22, 2012 |
8614306 |
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14033175 |
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12430479 |
Apr 27, 2009 |
8273352 |
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13591755 |
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61048689 |
Apr 29, 2008 |
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61048431 |
Apr 28, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C07K 2317/567 20130101;
A61P 25/28 20180101; A61P 37/02 20180101; C07K 2317/565 20130101;
A61P 21/04 20180101; A61P 29/00 20180101; C07K 2317/14 20130101;
C07K 16/18 20130101; A61P 27/00 20180101; A61P 37/06 20180101; A61P
25/00 20180101; C07K 2317/55 20130101; C07K 2317/56 20130101; A61P
37/00 20180101; C07K 16/40 20130101; A61K 2039/505 20130101; A61P
9/00 20180101; A61P 19/02 20180101; C07K 2317/76 20130101; A61P
27/02 20180101; C07K 2317/24 20130101; C07K 2317/92 20130101 |
International
Class: |
C07K 16/40 20060101
C07K016/40; C07K 16/18 20060101 C07K016/18 |
Claims
1. An anti-Factor D antibody comprising light chain HVRs of a
reference antibody, wherein said anti-Factor D antibody further
comprises a substitution at one or more positions of said reference
antibody, wherein said reference antibody comprises light chain
HVR-1 comprising ITSTDIDDDMN (SEQ ID NO: 30), light chain HVR-2
comprising GGNTLRP (SEQ ID NO: 35), and light chain HVR-3
comprising LQSDSLPYT (SEQ ID NO: 38), and wherein said substitution
is one or more of the following: (a) amino acid at position 33 of
the light chain is L or I; (b) amino acid at position 34 of the
light chain is A or Q; (c) amino acid at position 52 of the light
chain is S or A; (d) amino acid at position 104 of the light chain
is V; (e) amino acid at position 1 of the heavy chain is E; (f)
amino acid at position 99 of the heavy chain is A or Q; or (g)
amino acid at position 100 of the heavy chain is A or Q.
2. An anti-Factor D antibody comprising heavy chain HVRs of a
reference antibody, wherein said anti-Factor D antibody further
comprises a substitution at one or more positions of said reference
antibody, wherein said reference antibody comprises heavy chain
HVR-1 comprising GYTFTNYGMN (SEQ ID NO: 39), heavy chain HVR-2
comprising WINTYTGETTYADDFKG (SEQ ID NO: 40), and heavy chain HVR-3
comprising EGGVNN (SEQ ID NO: 41), and wherein said substitution is
one or more of the following: (a) amino acid at position 33 of the
light chain is L or I; (b) amino acid at position 34 of the light
chain is A or Q; (c) amino acid at position 52 of the light chain
is S or A; (d) amino acid at position 104 of the light chain is V;
(e) amino acid at position 1 of the heavy chain is E; (f) amino
acid at position 99 of the heavy chain is A or Q; or (g) amino acid
at position 100 of the heavy chain is A or Q.
3-21. (canceled)
22. A polypeptide comprising the following amino acid sequence:
X.sub.1VQLVQSGPELKKPGASVKVSCKASGYTFTNYGMNWVRQAPGQGLEWMGWINTYT
GETTYADDFKGRFVFSLDTSVSTAYLQISSLKAEDTAVYYCEREGGVX.sub.2X.sub.3WGQGTLVT
VSS (SEQ ID NO: 74), wherein X.sub.1 is Q or E; X.sub.2 is N, A or
Q; and X.sub.3 is N, A or Q.
23. A polypeptide comprising the following amino acid sequence:
DIQVTQSPSSLSASVGDRVTITCITSTDIDDDX.sub.4X.sub.5WYQQKPGKVPKLLISGGX.sub.6TLR-
PGV PSRFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQPEDVATYYCLQSDSLPYTFGQGTKX.sub.7EIK (SEQ ID
NO: 73), wherein X.sub.4 is M, L or I; X.sub.5 is N, A or Q;
X.sub.6 is N, S or A; and X.sub.7 is L or V.
24. A polypeptide comprising an amino acid sequence selected from
the group comprising SEQ ID NO: 18, SEQ ID NO: 19, SEQ ID NO: 20,
SEQ ID NO: 21, SEQ ID NO: 22, SEQ ID NO: 23, SEQ ID NO: 24, SEQ ID
NO: 25, SEQ ID NO: 26, SEQ ID NO: 27, SEQ ID NO: 28 and SEQ ID NO:
29.
25. A polypeptide comprising an amino acid sequence selected from
the group comprising SEQ ID NO: 6, SEQ ID NO: 7, SEQ ID NO: 8, SEQ
ID NO: 9, SEQ ID NO: 10, SEQ ID NO: 11, SEQ ID NO: 12, SEQ ID NO:
13, SEQ ID NO: 14, SEQ ID NO: 15, SEQ ID NO: 16 and SEQ ID NO:
17.
26-46. (canceled)
47. A polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence selected from
the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 47 and 61.
48. A polypeptide comprising the amino acid sequence selected from
the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 54 and 63.
49-51. (canceled)
52. A polynucleotide encoding an antibody of claim 1 or 2.
53. A polynucleotide encoding a polypeptide of claim 22-25 or
47-48.
54. A vector comprising the polynucleotide of claim 52.
55. A host cell comprising the vector of claim 54.
56. A host cell of claim 55, wherein the host cell is
eukaryotic.
57. A host cell of claim 55, wherein the host cell is a CHO
cell.
58. A method of making an anti-Factor D antibody, wherein the
method comprises (a) culturing the host cell of claim 55 under
conditions suitable for expression of the polynucleotide encoding
the antibody, and (b) isolating the antibody.
59-69. (canceled)
70. A method of treating a complement-associated disorder selected
from the group comprising inflammatory disorders.
71. A method of claim 70, wherein the inflammatory disorder is an
autoimmune disease.
72. A method of claim 71, wherein the autoimmune disease is
selected from the group comprising systemic lupus erythematosus,
myasthenia gravis, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's disease and
multiple sclerosis.
73. A method of treating a complement-associated disorder selected
from the group comprising ocular diseases.
74. A method of claim 73, wherein the ocular disease is selected
from the group comprising age-related macular degeneration,
diabetic retinopathy, choroidal neovascularization (CNV), uveitis,
diabetic macular edema, pathological myopia, von Hippel-Lindau
disease, histoplasmosis of the eye, Central Retinal Vein Occlusion
(CRVO), corneal neovascularization, and retinal
neovascularization.
75. A method of claim 74, wherein the age-related macular
degeneration is selected from the group comprising intermediate dry
AMD, and geographic atrophy.
76. (canceled)
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional application of U.S.
application Ser. No. 14/033,175, filed on Sep. 20, 2013, which is a
divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/591,755, filed on Aug.
22, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,614,306, which is a divisional
application of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/430,479, filed on Apr.
27, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,273,352, which claims the benefit
under 35 USC .sctn. 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No.
61/048,431, filed on Apr. 28, 2008 and U.S. Provisional Application
No. 61/048,689 filed on Apr. 29, 2008, the disclosures of each of
which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
SEQUENCE LISTING
[0002] The content of the following submission on ASCII text file
is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety: a computer
readable form (CRF) of the Sequence Listing, entitled
12279-747-999_SEQ_LISTING.txt, of file size 56,483 bytes, created
on May 2, 2017.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The complement system plays a central role in the clearance
of immune complexes and the immune response to infectious agents,
foreign antigens, virus-infected cells and tumor cells. However,
complement is also involved in pathological inflammation and in
autoimmune diseases. Therefore, inhibition of excessive or
uncontrolled activation of the complement cascade could provide
clinical benefit to patients with such diseases and conditions.
[0004] The complement system encompasses two distinct activation
pathways, designated the classical and the alternative pathways (V.
M. Holers, In Clinical Immunology: Principles and Practice, ed. R.
R. Rich, Mosby Press; 1996, 363-391). The classical pathway is a
calcium/magnesium-dependent cascade which is normally activated by
the formation of antigen-antibody complexes. The alternative
pathway is a magnesium-dependent cascade which is activated by
deposition and activation of C3 on certain susceptible surfaces
(e.g. cell wall polysaccharides of yeast and bacteria, and certain
biopolymer materials). Activation of the complement pathway
generates biologically active fragments of complement proteins,
e.g. C3a, C4a and C5a anaphylatoxins and C5b-9 membrane attack
complexes (MAC), which mediate inflammatory activities involving
leukocyte chemotaxis, activation of macrophages, neutrophils,
platelets, mast cells and endothelial cells, vascular permeability,
cytolysis, and tissue injury.
[0005] Factor D is a highly specific serine protease essential for
activation of the alternative complement pathway. It cleaves factor
B bound to C3b, generating the C3b/Bb enzyme which is the active
component of the alternative pathway C3/C5 convertases. Factor D
may be a suitable target for inhibition, since its plasma
concentration in humans is very low (1.8 .mu.g/ml), and it has been
shown to be the limiting enzyme for activation of the alternative
complement pathway (P. H. Lesavre and H. J. Muller-Eberhard. J.
Exp. Med., 1978; 148: 1498-1510; J. E. Volanakis et al., New Eng.
J. Med., 1985; 312: 395-401).
[0006] The down-regulation of complement activation has been
demonstrated to be effective in treating several disease
indications in animal models and in ex vivo studies, e.g. systemic
lupus erythematosus and glomerulonephritis (Y. Wang et al., Proc.
Natl. Acad. Sci.; 1996, 93: 8563-8568), rheumatoid arthritis (Y.
Wang et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 1995; 92: 8955-8959),
cardiopulmonary bypass and hemodialysis (C. S. Rinder, J. Clin.
Invest., 1995; 96: 1564-1572), hyperacute rejection in organ
transplantation (T. J. Kroshus et al., Transplantation, 1995; 60:
1194-1202), myocardial infarction (J. W. Homeister et al., J.
Immunol., 1993; 150: 1055-1064; H. F. Weisman et al., Science,
1990; 249: 146-151), reperfusion injury (E. A. Amsterdam et al.,
Am. J. Physiol., 1995; 268: H448-H457), and adult respiratory
distress syndrome (R. Rabinovici et al., J. Immunol., 1992; 149:
1744-1750). In addition, other inflammatory conditions and
autoimmune/immune complex diseases are also closely associated with
complement activation (V. M. Holers, ibid., B. P. Morgan. Eur. J.
Clin. Invest., 1994: 24: 219-228), including thermal injury, severe
asthma, anaphylactic shock, bowel inflammation, urticaria,
angioedema, vasculitis, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis,
membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, and Sjogren's
syndrome.
[0007] There is a need for antibody therapeutics in the field of
complement-mediated disorders, and humanized anti-Factor D
antibodies, and antibody variants thereof, and fragments thereof
(e.g. antigen-binding fragments), of the present invention provide
high affinity antibodies useful to meet this need.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In one aspect, the present invention relates generally to
antibodies capable of inhibiting biological activities associated
with Factor D.
[0009] In one aspect, the present invention relates to humanized
anti-Factor D antibodies, having a variety of therapeutically
desired characteristics. The invention includes the amino acid
sequences of the HVRs of these humanized anti-Factor D antibodies,
and their corresponding nucleic acid sequences. The invention
includes the amino acid sequences of the variable domains of the
heavy and light chain of the humanized anti-Factor D antibodies,
and their corresponding nucleic acid sequences. The invention
includes the amino acid sequences of the heavy and light chain of
the humanized anti-Factor D antibodies, and their corresponding
nucleic acid sequences.
[0010] In one aspect, specific antibodies within the scope of this
invention include, without limitation humanized anti-Factor D
antibodies, comprising HVRs of humanized anti-Factor D Fab clones
#238, 238-1, 238-2, 238-3, 238-4, 238-5, 238-6, 238-7, 238-8,
238-9, 238-10 or 238-11. In one embodiment, the humanized
anti-Factor D antibodies comprise the variable domains of the heavy
and/or light chains of humanized anti-Factor D Fab clones #238,
238-1, 238-2, 238-3, 238-4, 238-5, 238-6, 238-7, 238-8, 238-9,
238-10 or 238-11. In one embodiment, the humanized anti-Factor D
antibodies comprise the heavy and/or light chains of humanized
anti-Factor D Fab clones #238, 238-1, 238-2, 238-3, 238-4, 238-5,
238-6, 238-7, 238-8, 238-9, 238-10 or 238-11. In one embodiment,
the invention includes the humanized anti-factor D Fab clones #238,
238-1, 238-2, 238-3, 238-4, 238-5, 238-6, 238-7, 238-8, 238-9,
238-10 or 238-11. In one embodiment, the invention includes
antibody fragments (e.g. antigen-binding fragments) of full-length
antibodies of humanized anti-Factor D Fab clones #238, 238-1,
238-2, 238-3, 238-4, 238-5, 238-6, 238-7, 238-8, 238-9, 238-10 or
238-11. In one embodiment, the invention includes full-length
antibodies or antigen-binding fragments thereof, comprising the
antigen-binding sequences of the heavy chain and/or the light chain
of humanized anti-Factor D Fab clones #238, 238-1, 238-2, 238-3,
238-4, 238-5, 238-6, 238-7, 238-8, 238-9, 238-10 or 238-11. In one
embodiment, such antigen-binding sequences comprise at least one,
two, or three of the HVRs of the heavy chain. In one embodiment,
such antigen-binding sequences comprise at least one, two, or three
of the HVRs of the light chain. In one embodiment, such
antigen-binding sequences comprise at least a portion or all of the
heavy chain variable domain. In one embodiment, such
antigen-binding sequences comprise at least a portion or all of the
light chain variable domain.
[0011] In one aspect, the present invention provides antibody
fragments (e.g. antigen-binding fragments) or full-length
antibodies of humanized anti-Factor D Fab clone #111, comprising at
least one modification of the sequence of humanized anti-Factor D
Fab clone #111, wherein such full-length antibodies or such
antigen-binding fragments comprise the antigen-binding sequences of
the heavy chain and/or the light chain of humanized anti-Factor D
Fab clone #111. In one embodiment, the antibody fragments (e.g.
antigen-binding fragments) or full-length antibodies of humanized
anti-Factor D Fab clone #111, comprising at least one modification
of the sequence of humanized anti-Factor D Fab clone #111,
comprising the antigen-binding sequences of the heavy chain and/or
the light chain of humanized anti-Factor D Fab clone #111, further
bind essentially to the same epitope as humanized antibody Fab
clone #111. In one embodiment, such antigen-binding sequences
comprise at least one, two or three of the HVRs of the heavy chain.
In one embodiment, such antigen-binding sequences comprise at least
one, two or three of the HVRs of the light chain. In one
embodiment, such antigen-binding sequences comprise at least a
portion or all of the heavy chain variable domain. In one
embodiment, such antigen-binding sequences comprise at least a
portion or all of the light chain variable domain. In one
embodiment, such modification in said antibody fragments or said
full-length antibodies, is in the heavy chain. In one embodiment,
such modification in said antibody fragments or said full-length
antibodies, is in the light chain. In one embodiment, such
modification in said antibody fragments or said full-length
antibodies, is in the heavy chain variable domain. In one
embodiment, such modification in said antibody fragments or said
full-length antibodies, is in the light chain variable domain. In
one embodiment, such modification in said antibody fragments or
said full-length antibodies, is in at least one, two or three of
the HVRs of the heavy chain. In one embodiment, such modification
in said antibody fragments or said full-length antibodies, is in at
least one, two or three of the HVRs of the light chain.
[0012] In one aspect, the invention concerns antibodies of the
present invention, or fragments thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragments), which bind to Factor D with a binding affinity of at
least about 10.sup.-9 to 10.sup.-12M.
[0013] In one aspect, the invention concerns antibodies of the
present invention, or fragments thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragments), wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits a
biological function of Factor D in a Fab fragment to Factor D molar
ratio of about 0.05:1 (0.05) to about 10:1 (10), or about 0.09:1
(0.09) to about 8:1 (8), or about 0.1:1 (0.1) to about 6:1 (6), or
about 0.15:1 (0.15) to about 5:1 (5), or about 0.19:1 (0.19) to
about 4:1 (4), or about 0.2:1 (0.2) to about 3:1 (3), or about
0.3:1 (0.3) to about 2:1 (2), or about 0.4:1 (0.4) to about 1:1
(1), or about 0.5:1 (0.5) to about 1:2 (0.5), or about 0.6:1 (0.6)
to about 1:3 (0.33), or about 0.7:1 (0.7) to about 1:4 (0.25), or
about 0.8:1 (0.8) to about 1:5 (0.2) or about 0.9:1 (0.9) to about
1:6 (0.17).
[0014] In one aspect, the antibodies of the present invention
include human, humanized or chimeric antibodies.
[0015] In another aspect, the present invention includes antibody
fragments (e.g. antigen-binding fragments) of humanized anti-Factor
D antibodies. The antibody fragments of the present invention may,
for example, be Fab, Fab', F(ab').sub.2, scFv, (scFv).sub.2, dAb,
complementarity determining region (CDR) fragments, linear
antibodies, single-chain antibody molecules, minibodies, diabodies,
or multispecific antibodies formed from antibody fragments.
[0016] In other aspects of the invention, the present invention
includes compositions comprising an antibody of the invention, or
fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment). In another
embodiment, the invention provides cell lines and vectors encoding
at least a portion of an antibody of the invention, or fragment
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment). In one aspect, the
invention includes method of making, method of producing, and
method of using antibodies, or fragments thereof (e.g.
antigen-binding fragments) and compositions of the invention. In
one embodiment, the method of making an antibody of the invention,
or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), wherein the
method comprises (a) culturing a host cell, for example a
eukaryotic or CHO cell, comprising a vector, further comprising a
polynucleotide encoding an antibody of the invention, or fragment
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), under conditions suitable
for expression of the polynucleotide encoding the antibody, or
fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment) and (b) isolating
the antibody, or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment).
[0017] In a still further aspect, the invention concerns a
composition of matter comprising an antibody of the invention, or
fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), as described
herein, in combination with a carrier. Optionally, the carrier is a
pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
[0018] Another aspect of the present invention is the use of these
humanized antibodies or antibody fragments thereof (e.g.
antigen-binding fragments), for the preparation of a medicament or
composition for the prevention and/or treatment of disorders
associated with excessive or uncontrolled complement activation.
They include complement activation during cardiopulmonary bypass
operations; complement activation due to ischemia-reperfusion
following acute myocardial infarction, aneurysm, stroke,
hemorrhagic shock, crush injury, multiple organ failure,
hypobolemic shock, intestinal ischemia or other events causing
ischemia. Complement activation has also been shown to be
associated with inflammatory conditions such as severe burns,
endotoxemia, septic shock, adult respiratory distress syndrome,
hemodialysis; anaphylactic shock, severe asthma, angioedema,
Crohn's disease, sickle cell anemia, poststreptococcal
glomerulonephritis and pancreatitis. The disorder may be the result
of an adverse drug reaction, drug allergy, IL-2 induced vascular
leakage syndrome or radiographic contrast media allergy. It also
includes autoimmune disease such as systemic lupus erythematosus,
myasthenia gravis, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's disease and
multiple sclerosis. In another embodiment, complement activation is
also associated with transplant rejection. In another embodiment,
complement activation is also associated with ocular diseases (all
ocular conditions and diseases the pathology of which involve
complement, including the classical and the alternative pathway of
complement), such as, for example, without limitation, macular
degenerative disease, such as all stages of age-related macular
degeneration (AMD), including dry and wet (non-exudative and
exudative) forms, diabetic retinopathy and other ischemia-related
retinopathies, choroidal neovascularization (CNV), uveitis,
diabetic macular edema, pathological myopia, von Hippel-Lindau
disease, histoplasmosis of the eye, Central Retinal Vein Occlusion
(CRVO), corneal neovascularization, and retinal neovascularization.
In one example, complement-associated eye conditions include
age-related macular degeneration (AMD), including non-exudative
(e.g intermediate dry AMD or geographic atrophy (GA)) and exudative
(e.g. wet AMD (choroidal neovascularization (CNV)) AMD, diabetic
retinopathy (DR), endophthalmitis and uveitis. In a further
example, nonexudative AMD may include the presence of hard drusen,
soft drusen, geographic atrophy and/or pigment clumping. In another
example, complement-associated eye conditions include age-related
macular degeneration (AMD), including early AMD (e.g. includes
multiple small to one or more non-extensive medium sized drusen),
intermediate AMD (e.g. includes extensive medium drusen to one or
more large drusen) and advanced AMD (e.g. includes geographic
atrophy or advanced wet AMD (CNV). In a further example,
intermediate dry AMD may include large confluent drusen. In a
further example, geographic atrophy may include photoreceptor
and/or Retinal Pigmented Epithelial (RPE) loss. In a further
example, the area of geographic atrophy may be small or large
and/or may be in the macula area or in the peripheral retina. In
one example, the complement-associated eye condition is
intermediate dry AMD. In one example, the complement-associated eye
condition is geographic atrophy. In one example, the
complement-associated eye condition is wet AMD (choroidal
neovascularization (CNV)).
[0019] In another aspect, the invention provides a kit, comprising
an antibody of the invention, or fragment thereof (e.g.
antigen-binding fragment). In one embodiment, the invention
provides a kit, comprising an antibody of the invention, or
fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment) and instructions
for use. In one embodiment, the invention concerns a kit comprising
an antibody of the invention, or fragment thereof (e.g.
antigen-binding fragment) and instructions for administering said
antibody, to treat a complement-associated disorder. In one
embodiment, the invention provides a kit comprising a first
container comprising a composition comprising one or more one or
more antibodies of the invention, or antibody fragments thereof
(e.g. antigen-binding fragments); and a second container comprising
a buffer. In one embodiment, the buffer is pharmaceutically
acceptable. In one embodiment, a composition comprising an antibody
of the invention, or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment) further comprises a carrier, which in some embodiments is
pharmaceutically acceptable. In one embodiment, a kit further
comprises instructions for administering the composition (.e.g the
antibody, or antibody fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment) to a subject. In one embodiment, a kit further comprises
instructions for use of the kit.
[0020] In one aspect, the invention concerns an article of
manufacture containing materials useful for the treatment,
prevention and/or diagnosis of complement-associated disorders. In
one embodiment, the invention concerns an article of manufacture,
comprising: (a) a container; (b) a label on the container; and (c)
a composition of matter comprising an antibody, or variant thereof
or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), of the present
invention, contained with the container, wherein the label on said
container indicates that the composition can be used for treatment,
prevention and/or diagnosis of complement-associated disorders.
[0021] In one aspect, the invention provides use of an anti-Factor
D antibody of the invention, or antibody fragment thereof (e.g.
antigen-binding fragment), nucleic acid of the invention,
expression vector of the invention or host cell of the invention,
in the preparation of a medicament for the therapeutic and/or
prophylactic treatment of a disease, such as a
complement-associated eye condition. In one embodiment, the
complement-associated eye condition is selected from age-related
macular degeneration (AMD), including non-exudative (e.g
intermediate dry AMD or geographic atrophy (GA)) and exudative
(e.g. wet AMD (choroidal neovascularization (CNV)) AMD, diabetic
retinopathy (DR), endophthalmitis and uveitis. In one example, the
complement-associated eye condition is intermediate dry AMD. In one
example, the complement-associated eye condition is geographic
atrophy. In one example, the complement-associated eye condition is
wet AMD (choroidal neovascularization (CNV)).
[0022] In one aspect, the invention provides use of an article of
manufacture of the invention in the preparation of a medicament for
the therapeutic and/or prophylactic treatment of a disease, such as
a complement-associated eye condition. In one embodiment, the
complement-associated eye condition is selected from age-related
macular degeneration (AMD), including non-exudative (e.g
intermediate dry AMD or geographic atrophy (GA)) and exudative
(e.g. wet AMD (choroidal neovascularization (CNV)) AMD, diabetic
retinopathy (DR), endophthalmitis and uveitis. In one example, the
complement-associated eye condition is intermediate dry AMD. In one
example, the complement-associated eye condition is geographic
atrophy. In one example, the complement-associated eye condition is
wet AMD (choroidal neovascularization (CNV)).
[0023] In one aspect, the invention provides use of a kit of the
invention in the preparation of a medicament for the therapeutic
and/or prophylactic treatment of a disease, such as a
complement-associated eye condition. In one embodiment, the
complement-associated eye condition is selected from age-related
macular degeneration (AMD), including non-exudative (e.g
intermediate dry AMD or geographic atrophy (GA)) and exudative
(e.g. wet AMD (choroidal neovascularization (CNV)) AMD, diabetic
retinopathy (DR), endophthalmitis and uveitis. In one example, the
complement-associated eye condition is intermediate dry AMD. In one
example, the complement-associated eye condition is geographic
atrophy. In one example, the complement-associated eye condition is
wet AMD (choroidal neovascularization (CNV)).
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0024] FIGS. 1A-1C shows the alignment of sequences of the variable
light chain domains for the following: humanized anti-Factor D Fab
clone #111 (SEQ ID NO: 1), humanized anti-Factor D Fabs, 238,
238-1, 238-2, 238-3, 238-4, 238-5, 238-6, 238-7, 238-8, 238-9,
238-10 and 238-11 (SEQ ID NOs: 6-17, respectively) and VL Kappa I
consensus sequence (SEQ ID NO: 65). Positions are numbered
according to Kabat and hypervariable regions (in accordance with
Kabat+Chothia HVR definitions) are boxed (HVRs: (1) HVR-L1
identified as A1-A11 (ITSTDIDDDMN (SEQ ID NO: 30), ITSTDIDDDLN (SEQ
ID NO: 31), ITSTDIDDDIN (SEQ ID NO: 32), ITSTDIDDDMA (SEQ ID NO:
33) or ITSTDIDDDMQ (SEQ ID NO: 34)), (2) HVR-L2 identified as B1-B7
(GGNTLRP (SEQ ID NO: 35), GGSTLRP (SEQ ID NO: 36) or GGATLRP (SEQ
ID NO: 37)), (3) HVR-L3 identified as C1-C9 (LQSDSLPYT (SEQ ID NO:
38)). Amino acid changes in each humanized anti-Factor D Fab are
bold and italicized.
[0025] FIG. 2A-C shows the alignment of sequences of the variable
heavy chain domains for the following: humanized anti-Factor D Fab
clone #111 (SEQ ID NO: 2) and humanized anti-Factor D Fabs, 238,
238-1, 238-2, 238-3, 238-4, 238-5, 238-6, 238-7, 238-8, 238-9,
238-10 and 238-11 (SEQ ID NOs: 18-29, respectively) and VH subgroup
7 consensus sequence (SEQ ID NO: 66). Positions are numbered
according to Kabat and hypervariable regions (in accordance with
Kabat+Chothia HVR definitions) are boxed (HVRs: (1) HVR-H1
identified as D1-D10 (GYTFTNYGMN (SEQ ID NO: 39), (2) HVR-H2
identified as E1-E19 (WINTYTGETTYADDFKG (SEQ ID NO: 40), (3) HVR-H3
identified as F1-F6 (EGGVNN (SEQ ID NO: 41), EGGVAN (SEQ ID NO:
42), EGGVQN (SEQ ID NO: 43), EGGVNA (SEQ ID NO: 44) or EGGVNQ (SEQ
ID NO: 45)). Amino acid changes in each humanized anti-Factor D Fab
are bold and italicized.
[0026] FIG. 3 shows the nucleotide sequence (SEQ ID NO: 46) of the
light chain of humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238. The nucleotide
sequence encodes for the light chain of humanized anti-Factor D Fab
238 with the start and stop codon shown in bold and underlined. The
codon corresponding to the first amino acid in FIG. 4 (SEQ ID NO:
47) is bold and italicized.
[0027] FIG. 4 shows the amino acid sequence (SEQ ID NO: 47) of the
light chain for humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238. The amino acid
sequence lacks the N-terminus signal sequence of the polypeptide
encoded by SEQ ID NO: 46 shown in FIG. 3. The HVR sequences are
bold and italicized. Variable regions are regions not underlined
while first constant domain CL1 is underlined. Framework (FR)
regions and HVR regions are shown: FR1-LC (SEQ ID NO: 48), FR2-LC
(SEQ ID NO: 49), FR3-LC (SEQ ID NO: 50), FR4-LC (SEQ ID NO: 51),
HVR1-LC (SEQ ID NO: 30 (ITSTDIDDDMN)), HVR2-LC (SEQ ID NO: 35
(GGNTLRP)), HVR3-LC (SEQ ID NO: 38 (LQSDSLPYT)) and CL1 (SEQ ID NO:
52).
[0028] FIG. 5 shows the nucleotide sequence (SEQ ID NO: 53) of the
heavy chain of humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238. The nucleotide
sequence encodes for the heavy chain of humanized anti-Factor D Fab
238 with the start and stop codon shown in bold and underlined. The
codon corresponding to the first amino acid in FIG. 6 (SEQ ID NO:
54) is bold and italicized.
[0029] FIG. 6 shows the amino acid sequence (SEQ ID NO: 54) of the
heavy chain for humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238. The amino acid
sequence lacks the N-terminus signal sequence of the polypeptide
encoded by SEQ ID NO: 53 shown in FIG. 5. The HVR sequences are
bold and italicized. Variable regions are regions not underlined
while first constant domain CH1 is underlined. Framework (FR)
regions and HVR regions are shown: FR1-HC (SEQ ID NO: 55), FR2-HC
(SEQ ID NO: 56), FR3-HC (SEQ ID NO: 57), FR4-HC (SEQ ID NO: 58),
HVR1-HC (SEQ ID NO: 39 (GYTFTNYGMN)), HVR2-HC (SEQ ID NO: 40
(WINTYTGETTYADDFKG)), HVR3-HC (SEQ ID NO: 41 (EGGVNN)) and CH1 (SEQ
ID NO: 59).
[0030] FIG. 7 shows the nucleotide sequence (SEQ ID NO: 60) of the
light chain of humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-1. The nucleotide
sequence encodes for the light chain of humanized anti-Factor D Fab
238-1 with the start and stop codon shown in bold and underlined.
The codon corresponding to the first amino acid in FIG. 8 (SEQ ID
NO: 61) is bold and italicized.
[0031] FIG. 8 shows the amino acid sequence (SEQ ID NO: 61) of the
light chain for humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-1. The amino acid
sequence lacks the N-terminus signal sequence of the polypeptide
encoded by SEQ ID NO: 60 shown in FIG. 7. The HVR sequences are
bold and italicized. Variable regions are regions not underlined
while first constant domain CL1 is underlined. Framework (FR)
regions and HVR regions are shown: FR1-LC (SEQ ID NO: 48), FR2-LC
(SEQ ID NO: 49), FR3-LC (SEQ ID NO: 50), FR4-LC (SEQ ID NO: 51),
HVR1-LC (SEQ ID NO: 30 (ITSTDIDDDMN)), HVR2-LC (SEQ ID NO: 35
(GGNTLRP)), HVR3-LC (SEQ ID NO: 38 (LQSDSLPYT)) and CL1 (SEQ ID NO:
52).
[0032] FIG. 9 shows the nucleotide sequence (SEQ ID NO: 62) of the
heavy chain of humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-1. The nucleotide
sequence encodes for the heavy chain of humanized anti-Factor D Fab
238-1 with the start and stop codon shown in bold and underlined.
The codon corresponding to the first amino acid in FIG. 10 (SEQ ID
NO: 63) is bold and italicized.
[0033] FIG. 10 shows the amino acid sequence (SEQ ID NO: 63) of the
heavy chain for humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-1. The amino acid
sequence lacks the N-terminus signal sequence of the polypeptide
encoded by SEQ ID NO: 62 shown in FIG. 9. The HVR sequences are
bold and italicized. Variable regions are regions not underlined
while first constant domain CH1 is underlined. Framework (FR)
regions and HVR regions are shown: FR1-HC (SEQ ID NO: 64), FR2-HC
(SEQ ID NO: 56), FR3-HC (SEQ ID NO: 57), FR4-HC (SEQ ID NO: 58),
HVR1-HC (SEQ ID NO: 39 (GYTFTNYGMN)), HVR2-HC (SEQ ID NO: 40
(WINTYTGETTYADDFKG)), HVR3-HC (SEQ ID NO: 41 (EGGVNN)) and CH1 (SEQ
ID NO: 59).
[0034] FIG. 11 shows the hemolytic assay results, showing
inhibition of the alternative complement activity, for humanized
anti-Factor D Fab clone #111 and humanized anti-Factor D Fabs 238
and 238-1. IC.sub.50 values are shown.
[0035] FIG. 12 shows the hemolytic assay results, showing
inhibition of the alternative pathway (AP) complement activity, for
humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238, at three serum concentrations (9.7
nM, 16.2 nM and 26.5 nM) of Factor D. Table 3 shows the IC.sub.50
(nM) and IC.sub.90 (nM) values (values represent the average of
three repeated experiments), corresponding to the three serum
concentrations of Factor D. The antibody to target Factor D molar
ratios are also shown in Table 3.
[0036] FIG. 13 shows the simulated duration of inhibition of the
alternative pathway (AP) complement activation in a human eye using
a single intravitreal (IVT) injection of anti-Factor D Fab 238 at a
2.5 mg dose (assuming a half-life (t.sub.1,2) of anti-Factor D Fab
238=11.5 days, based on interspecies scaling from the rabbit). A
single IVT injection of anti-Factor D Fab 238 was estimated to
inhibit AP complement activation in the retinal tissue for at least
about 74 days and in the vitreous humor for at least about 97 days.
In FIG. 13, the dashed line shows the simulated anti-Factor D Fab
238 concentration in the vitreous humor following intravitreal
administration. In FIG. 13, the solid line shows the simulated
anti-Factor D Fab 238 concentration in the retinal tissue following
intravitreal administration. The difference in the concentration in
the vitreous humor and retinal tissue is based upon an estimate of
the retinal tissue partition coefficient of 20%; in other words,
20% of the total drug administered to the vitreous humor will have
access to the retinal tissue.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
I. Definitions
[0037] Terms used throughout this application are to be construed
with ordinary and typical meaning to those of ordinary skill in the
art. However, Applicants desire that the following terms be given
the particular definition as defined below.
[0038] The phrase "substantially identical" with respect to an
antibody chain polypeptide sequence may be construed as an antibody
chain exhibiting at least 70%, or 80%, or 90% or 95% sequence
identity to the reference polypeptide sequence. The term with
respect to a nucleic acid sequence may be construed as a sequence
of nucleotides exhibiting at least about 85%, or 90%, or 95% or 97%
sequence identity to the reference nucleic acid sequence.
[0039] The term "identity" or "homology" shall be construed to mean
the percentage of amino acid residues in the candidate sequence
that are identical with the residue of a corresponding sequence to
which it is compared, after aligning the sequences and introducing
gaps, if necessary to achieve the maximum percent identity for the
entire sequence, and not considering any conservative substitutions
as part of the sequence identity. Neither N- or C-terminal
extensions nor insertions shall be construed as reducing identity
or homology. Methods and computer programs for the alignment are
well known in the art. Sequence identity may be measured using
sequence analysis software.
[0040] The term "antibody" is used in the broadest sense, and
specifically covers monoclonal antibodies (including full length
monoclonal antibodies), polyclonal antibodies, and multispecific
antibodies (e.g., bispecific antibodies). Antibodies (Abs) and
immunoglobulins (Igs) are glycoproteins having the same structural
characteristics. While antibodies exhibit binding specificity to a
specific target, immunoglobulins include both antibodies and other
antibody-like molecules which lack target specificity. Native
antibodies and immunoglobulins are usually heterotetrameric
glycoproteins of about 150,000 daltons, composed of two identical
light (L) chains and two identical heavy (H) chains. Each heavy
chain has at one end a variable domain (V.sub.H) followed by a
number of constant domains. Each light chain has a variable domain
at one end (V.sub.L) and a constant domain at its other end.
[0041] An "isolated" antibody is one which has been identified and
separated and/or recovered from a component of its natural
environment. Contaminant components of its natural environment are
materials which would interfere with diagnostic or therapeutic uses
for the antibody, and may include enzymes, hormones, and other
proteinaceous or nonproteinaceous solutes. In one example, the
antibody will be purified (1) to greater than 95% by weight of
antibody as determined by the Lowry method, and most preferably
more than 99% by weight, (2) to a degree sufficient to obtain at
least 15 residues of N-terminal or internal amino acid sequence by
use of a spinning cup sequenator, or (3) to homogeneity by SDS-PAGE
under reducing or nonreducing conditions using Coomassie blue or,
preferably, silver stain. Isolated antibody includes the antibody
in situ within recombinant cells since at least one component of
the antibody's natural environment will not be present. Ordinarily,
however, isolated antibody will be prepared by at least one
purification step.
[0042] As used herein, "anti-human Factor D antibody" means an
antibody which specifically binds to human Factor D in such a
manner so as to inhibit or substantially reduce complement
activation.
[0043] The term "Factor D" is used herein to refer to native
sequence and variant Factor D polypeptides.
[0044] A "native sequence" Factor D, is a polypeptide having the
same amino acid sequence as a Factor D polypeptide derived from
nature, regardless of its mode of preparation. Thus, native
sequence Factor D can be isolated from nature or can be produced by
recombinant and/or synthetic means. In addition to a mature Factor
D protein, such as a mature human Factor D protein (NM_001928), the
term "native sequence Factor D", specifically encompasses
naturally-occurring precursor forms of Factor D (e.g., an inactive
preprotein, which is proteolytically cleaved to produce the active
form), naturally-occurring variant forms (e.g., alternatively
spliced forms) and naturally-occurring allelic variants of Factor
D, as well as structural conformational variants of Factor D
molecules having the same amino acid sequence as a Factor D
polypeptide derived from nature. Factor D polypeptides of non-human
animals, including higher primates and non-human mammals, are
specifically included within this definition.
[0045] "Factor D variant" means an active Factor D polypeptide as
defined below having at least about 80% amino acid sequence
identity to a native sequence Factor D polypeptide, such as the
native sequence human Factor D polypeptide (NM_001928). Ordinarily,
a Factor D variant will have at least about 80% amino acid sequence
identity, or at least about 85% amino acid sequence identity, or at
least about 90% amino acid sequence identity, or at least about 95%
amino acid sequence identity, or at least about 98% amino acid
sequence identity, or at least about 99% amino acid sequence
identity with the mature human amino acid sequence (NM_001928).
[0046] "Percent (%) amino acid sequence identity" is defined as the
percentage of amino acid residues in a candidate sequence that are
identical with the amino acid residues in a reference Factor D
sequence, after aligning the sequences and introducing gaps, if
necessary, to achieve the maximum percent sequence identity, and
not considering any conservative substitutions as part of the
sequence identity. Alignment for purposes of determining percent
amino acid sequence identity can be achieved in various ways that
are within the skill in the art, for instance, using publicly
available computer software such as BLAST, BLAST-2, ALIGN or
Megalign (DNASTAR) software. Those skilled in the art can determine
appropriate parameters for measuring alignment, including any
algorithms needed to achieve maximal alignment over the full length
of the sequences being compared. Sequence identity is then
calculated relative to the longer sequence, i.e. even if a shorter
sequence shows 100% sequence identity with a portion of a longer
sequence, the overall sequence identity will be less than 100%.
[0047] "Percent (%) nucleic acid sequence identity" is defined as
the percentage of nucleotides in a candidate sequence that are
identical with the nucleotides in a reference Factor D-encoding
sequence, after aligning the sequences and introducing gaps, if
necessary, to achieve the maximum percent sequence identity.
Alignment for purposes of determining percent nucleic acid sequence
identity can be achieved in various ways that are within the skill
in the art, for instance, using publicly available computer
software such as BLAST, BLAST-2, ALIGN or Megalign (DNASTAR)
software. Those skilled in the art can determine appropriate
parameters for measuring alignment, including any algorithms needed
to achieve maximal alignment over the full length of the sequences
being compared. Sequence identity is then calculated relative to
the longer sequence, i.e. even if a shorter sequence shows 100%
sequence identity with a portion of a longer sequence, the overall
sequence identity will be less than 100%.
[0048] An "isolated" nucleic acid molecule is a nucleic acid
molecule that is identified and separated from at least one
contaminant nucleic acid molecule with which it is ordinarily
associated in the natural source of the nucleic acid. An isolated
nucleic acid molecule is other than in the form or setting in which
it is found in nature. Isolated nucleic acid molecules therefore
are distinguished from the nucleic acid molecule as it exists in
natural cells. However, an isolated nucleic acid molecule includes
nucleic acid molecules contained in cells that ordinarily express
an encoded polypeptide where, for example, the nucleic acid
molecule is in a chromosomal location different from that of
natural cells.
[0049] An "isolated" Factor D polypeptide-encoding nucleic acid
molecule is a nucleic acid molecule that is identified and
separated from at least one contaminant nucleic acid molecule with
which it is ordinarily associated in the natural source of the
Factor D-encoding nucleic acid. An isolated Factor D
polypeptide-encoding nucleic acid molecule is other than in the
form or setting in which it is found in nature. Isolated Factor D
polypeptide-encoding nucleic acid molecules therefore are
distinguished from the encoding nucleic acid molecule(s) as they
exists in natural cells. However, an isolated Factor D-encoding
nucleic acid molecule includes Factor D-encoding nucleic acid
molecules contained in cells that ordinarily express Factor D
where, for example, the nucleic acid molecule is in a chromosomal
location different from that of natural cells.
[0050] The term "antagonist" is used in the broadest sense, and
includes any molecule that is capable of neutralizing, blocking,
partially or fully inhibiting, abrogating, reducing or interfering
with a Factor D biological activity. Factor D antagonists include,
without limitation, anti-Factor D antibodies, and antibody variants
thereof, antigen-binding fragments thereof, other binding
polypeptides, peptides, and non-peptide small molecules, that bind
to Factor D and are capable of neutralizing, blocking, partially or
fully inhibiting, abrogating, reducing or interfering with Factor D
activities, such as the ability of Factor D to participate in the
pathology of a complement-associated eye condition.
[0051] A "small molecule" is defined herein to have a molecular
weight below about 600, preferable below about 1000 daltons.
[0052] "Active" or "activity" or "biological activity" in the
context of a Factor D antagonist of the present invention is the
ability to antagonize (partially or fully inhibit) a biological
activity of Factor D. One example of a biological activity of a
Factor D antagonist is the ability to achieve a measurable
improvement in the state, e.g. pathology, of a Factor D-associated
disease or condition, such as, for example, a complement-associated
eye condition. The activity can be determined in in vitro or in
vivo tests, including binding assays, alternative pathway hemolysis
assays (e.g. assays measuring inhibition of the alternative pathway
complement activity or activation), using a relevant animal model,
or human clinical trials.
[0053] The term "complement-associated disorder" is used in the
broadest sense and includes disorders associated with excessive or
uncontrolled complement activation. They include complement
activation during cardiopulmonary bypass operations; complement
activation due to ischemia-reperfusion following acute myocardial
infarction, aneurysm, stroke, hemorrhagic shock, crush injury,
multiple organ failure, hypobolemic shock, intestinal ischemia or
other events causing ischemia. Complement activation has also been
shown to be associated with inflammatory conditions such as severe
burns, endotoxemia, septic shock, adult respiratory distress
syndrome, hemodialysis; anaphylactic shock, severe asthma,
angioedema, Crohn's disease, sickle cell anemia, poststreptococcal
glomerulonephritis and pancreatitis. The disorder may be the result
of an adverse drug reaction, drug allergy, IL-2 induced vascular
leakage syndrome or radiographic contrast media allergy. It also
includes autoimmune disease such as systemic lupus erythematosus,
myasthenia gravis, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's disease and
multiple sclerosis. Complement activation is also associated with
transplant rejection. Complement activation is also associated with
ocular diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic
retinopathy and other ischemia-related retinopathies, choroidal
neovascularization (CNV), uveitis, diabetic macular edema,
pathological myopia, von Hippel-Lindau disease, histoplasmosis of
the eye, Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO), corneal
neovascularization, and retinal neovascularization.
[0054] The term "complement-associated eye condition" is used in
the broadest sense and includes all eye conditions the pathology of
which involves complement, including the classical and the
alternative pathways, and in particular the alternative pathway of
complement. Complement-associated eye conditions include, without
limitation, macular degenerative diseases, such as all stages of
age-related macular degeneration (AMD), including dry and wet
(non-exudative and exudative) forms, choroidal neovascularization
(CNV), uveitis, diabetic and other ischemia-related retinopathies,
and other intraocular neovascular diseases, such as diabetic
macular edema, pathological myopia, von Hippel-Lindau disease,
histoplasmosis of the eye, Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO),
corneal neovascularization, and retinal neovascularization. In one
example, complement-associated eye conditions includes age-related
macular degeneration (AMD), including non-exudative (e.g.
intermediate dry AMD or geographic atrophy (GA)) and exudative
(e.g. wet AMD (choroidal neovascularization (CNV)) AMD, diabetic
retinopathy (DR), endophthalmitis and uveitis. In a further
example, nonexudative AMD may include the presence of hard drusen,
soft drusen, geographic atrophy and/or pigment clumping. In one
example, complement-associated eye conditions include age-related
macular degeneration (AMD), including early AMD (e.g. includes
multiple small to one or more non-extensive medium sized drusen),
intermediate AMD (e.g. includes extensive medium drusen to one or
more large drusen) and advanced AMD (e.g. includes geographic
atrophy or advanced wet AMD (CNV). (Ferris et al., AREDS Report No.
18; Sallo et al., Eye Res., 34(3): 238-40 (2009); Jager et al., New
Engl. J. Med., 359(1): 1735 (2008)). In a further example,
intermediate dry AMD may include large confluent drusen. In a
further example, geographic atrophy may include photoreceptor
and/or Retinal Pigmented Epithelial (RPE) loss. In a further
example, the area of geographic atrophy may be small or large
and/or may be in the macula area or in the peripheral retina. In
one example, complement-associated eye condition is intermediate
dry AMD. In one example, complement-associated eye condition is
geographic atrophy. In one example, complement-associated eye
condition is wet AMD (choroidal neovascularization (CNV)).
[0055] "Treatment" is an intervention performed with the intention
of preventing the development or altering the pathology of a
disorder. Accordingly, "treatment" refers to both therapeutic
treatment and prophylactic or preventative measures. Those in need
of treatment include those already with the disorder as well as
those in which the disorder is to be prevented. In treatment of an
immune related disease, a therapeutic agent may directly alter the
magnitude of response of a component of the immune response, or
render the disease more susceptible to treatment by other
therapeutic agents, e.g., antibiotics, antifungals,
anti-inflammatory agents, chemotherapeutics, etc.
[0056] The "pathology" of a disease, such as a
complement-associated eye condition, includes all phenomena that
compromise the well-being of the patient. This includes, without
limitation, abnormal or uncontrollable cell growth (neutrophilic,
eosinophilic, monocytic, lymphocytic cells), antibody production,
auto-antibody production, complement production, interference with
the normal functioning of neighboring cells, release of cytokines
or other secretory products at abnormal levels, suppression or
aggravation of any inflammatory or immunological response,
infiltration of inflammatory cells (neutrophilic, eosinophilic,
monocytic, lymphocytic) into cellular spaces, etc.
[0057] The term "mammal" as used herein refers to any animal
classified as a mammal, including, without limitation, humans,
higher primates, domestic and farm animals, and zoo, sports or pet
animals such horses, pigs, cattle, dogs, cats and ferrets, etc. In
one embodiment of the invention, the mammal is a human.
[0058] Administration "in combination with" one or more further
therapeutic agents includes simultaneous (concurrent) and
consecutive administration in any order.
[0059] "Therapeutically effective amount" is the amount of a
"Factor D antagonist" which is required to achieve a measurable
improvement in the state, e.g. pathology, of the target disease or
condition, such as, for example, a complement-associated eye
condition.
[0060] The term "control sequences" refers to DNA sequences
necessary for the expression of an operably linked coding sequence
in a particular host organism. The control sequences that are
suitable for prokaryotes, for example, include a promoter,
optionally an operator sequence, and a ribosome binding site.
Eukaryotic cells are known to utilize promoters, polyadenylation
signals, and enhancers.
[0061] Nucleic acid is "operably linked" when it is placed into a
functional relationship with another nucleic acid sequence. For
example, DNA for a presequence or secretory leader is operably
linked to DNA for a polypeptide if it is expressed as a preprotein
that participates in the secretion of the polypeptide; a promoter
or enhancer is operably linked to a coding sequence if it affects
the transcription of the sequence; or a ribosome binding site is
operably linked to a coding sequence if it is positioned so as to
facilitate translation. Generally, "operably linked" means that the
DNA sequences being linked are contiguous, and, in the case of a
secretory leader, contiguous and in reading phase. However,
enhancers do not have to be contiguous. Linking is accomplished by
ligation at convenient restriction sites. If such sites do not
exist, the synthetic oligonucleotide adaptors or linkers are used
in accordance with conventional practice.
[0062] "Stringency" of hybridization reactions is readily
determinable by one of ordinary skill in the art, and generally is
an empirical calculation dependent upon probe length, washing
temperature, and salt concentration. In general, longer probes
require higher temperatures for proper annealing, while shorter
probes need lower temperatures. Hybridization generally depends on
the ability of denatured DNA to reanneal when complementary strands
are present in an environment below their melting temperature. The
higher the degree of desired homology between the probe and
hybridizable sequence, the higher the relative temperature that can
be used. As a result, it follows that higher relative temperatures
would tend to make the reaction conditions more stringent, while
lower temperatures less so. For additional details and explanation
of stringency of hybridization reactions, see Ausubel et al.,
Current Protocols in Molecular Biology, Wiley Interscience
Publishers, (1995).
[0063] "Stringent conditions" or "high stringency conditions", as
defined herein, may be identified by those that: (1) employ low
ionic strength and high temperature for washing, for example 0.015
M sodium chloride/0.0015 M sodium citrate/0.1% sodium dodecyl
sulfate at 50.degree. C.; (2) employ during hybridization a
denaturing agent, such as formamide, for example, 50% (v/v)
formamide with 0.1% bovine serum albumin/0.1% Ficoll/0.1%
polyvinylpyrrolidone/50 mM sodium phosphate buffer at pH 6.5 with
750 mM sodium chloride, 75 mM sodium citrate at 42 C; or (3) employ
50% formamide, 5.times.SSC (0.75 M NaCl, 0.075 M sodium citrate),
50 mM sodium phosphate (pH 6.8), 0.1% sodium pyrophosphate,
5.times.Denhardt's solution, sonicated salmon sperm DNA (50
.mu.g/ml), 0.1% SDS, and 10% dextran sulfate at 42.degree. C., with
washes at 42.degree. C. in 0.2.times.SSC (sodium chloride/sodium
citrate) and 50% formamide at 55.degree. C., followed by a
high-stringency wash consisting of 0.1.times.SSC containing EDTA at
55.degree. C.
[0064] "Moderately stringent conditions" may be identified as
described by Sambrook et al., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory
Manual, New York: Cold Spring Harbor Press, 1989, and include the
use of washing solution and hybridization conditions (e.g.,
temperature, ionic strength and % SDS) less stringent that those
described above. An example of moderately stringent conditions is
overnight incubation at 37.degree. C. in a solution comprising: 20%
formamide, 5.times.SSC (150 mM NaCl, 15 mM trisodium citrate), 50
mM sodium phosphate (pH 7.6), 5.times.Denhardt's solution, 10%
dextran sulfate, and 20 mg/mL denatured sheared salmon sperm DNA,
followed by washing the filters in 1.times.SSC at about
37-50.degree. C. The skilled artisan will recognize how to adjust
the temperature, ionic strength, etc. as necessary to accommodate
factors such as probe length and the like.
[0065] The term "variable" in the context of variable domain of
antibodies, refers to the fact that certain portions of the
variable domains differ extensively in sequence among antibodies
and are used in the binding and specificity of each particular
antibody for its particular target. However, the variability is not
evenly distributed through the variable domains of antibodies. It
is concentrated in three segments called complementarity
determining regions (CDRs) also known as hypervariable regions
(HVRs) both in the light chain and the heavy chain variable
domains. The more highly conserved portions of variable domains are
called the framework (FR). The variable domains of native heavy and
light chains each comprise four FR regions, largely a adopting a
.beta.-sheet configuration, connected by three CDRs, which form
loops connecting, and in some cases forming part of, the
.beta.-sheet structure. The CDRs in each chain are held together in
close proximity by the FR regions and, with the CDRs from the other
chain, contribute to the formation of the target binding site of
antibodies (see Kabat et al.). As used herein, numbering of
immunoglobulin amino acid residues is done according to the
immunoglobulin amino acid residue numbering system of Kabat et al.,
(Sequences of Proteins of Immunological Interest, National
Institute of Health, Bethesda, Md. 1987), unless otherwise
indicated.
[0066] The term "hypervariable region", "HVR", or "HV", when used
herein refers to the regions of an antibody variable domain which
are hypervariable in sequence and/or form structurally defined
loops. Generally, antibodies comprise six hypervariable regions;
three in the VH (H1, H2, H3), and three in the VL (L1, L2, L3). A
number of hypervariable region delineations are in use and are
encompassed herein. The Kabat Complementarity Determining Regions
(CDRs) are based on sequence variability and are the most commonly
used (Kabat et al., Sequences of Proteins of Immunological
Interest, 5th Ed. Public Health Service, National Institutes of
Health, Bethesda, Md. (1991)). Chothia refers instead to the
location of the structural loops (Chothia and Lesk J. Mol. Biol.
196:901-917 (1987)). The end of the Chothia CDR-H1 loop when
numbered using the Kabat numbering convention varies between H32
and H34 depending on the length of the loop (this is because the
Kabat numbering scheme places the insertions at H35A and H35B; if
neither 35A nor 35B is present, the loop ends at 32; if only 35A is
present, the loop ends at 33; if both 35A and 35B are present, the
loop ends at 34). The AbM hypervariable regions represent a
compromise between the Kabat CDRs and Chothia structural loops, and
are used by Oxford Molecular's AbM antibody modeling software. The
"contact" hypervariable regions are based on an analysis of the
available complex crystal structures. The residues from each of
these hypervariable regions are noted below.
TABLE-US-00001 Loop Kabat AbM Chothia Contact L1 L24-L34 L24-L34
L24-L34 L30-L36 L2 L50-L56 L50-L56 L50-L56 L46-L55 L3 L89-L97
L89-L97 L89-L97 L89-L96 H1 H31-H35B H26-H35B H26-H32 . . . 34
H30-H35B (Kabat Numbering) H1 H31-H35 H26-H35 H26-H32 H30-H35
(Chothia Numbering) H2 H50-H65 H50-H58 H52-H56 H47-H58 H3 H95-H102
H95-H102 H95-H102 H93-H101
[0067] Hypervariable regions may comprise "extended hypervariable
regions" as follows: 24-36 or 24-34 (L1), 46-56 or 50-56 (L2) and
89-97 (L3) in the VL and 26-35B (H1), 50-65, 47-65 or 49-65 (H2)
and 93-102, 94-102 or 95-102 (H3) in the VH. The variable domain
residues are numbered according to Kabat et al., supra for each of
these definitions.
[0068] "Framework" or "FR" residues are those variable domain
residues other than the hypervariable region residues or CDR
residues herein defined.
[0069] The term "variable domain residue numbering as in Kabat" or
"amino acid position numbering as in Kabat", and variations
thereof, refers to the numbering system used for heavy chain
variable domains or light chain variable domains of the compilation
of antibodies in Kabat et al., Sequences of Proteins of
Immunological Interest, 5th Ed. Public Health Service, National
Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md. (1991). Using this numbering
system, the actual linear amino acid sequence may contain fewer or
additional amino acids corresponding to a shortening of, or
insertion into, a FR or CDR of the variable domain. For example, a
heavy chain variable domain may include a single amino acid insert
(residue 52a according to Kabat) after residue 52 of H2 and
inserted residues (e.g. residues 82a, 82b, and 82c, etc according
to Kabat) after heavy chain FR residue 82. The Kabat numbering of
residues may be determined for a given antibody by alignment at
regions of homology of the sequence of the antibody with a
"standard" Kabat numbered sequence.
[0070] The Kabat numbering system is generally used when referring
to a residue in the variable domain (approximately residues 1-107
of the light chain and residues 1-113 of the heavy chain) (e.g,
Kabat et al., Sequences of Immunological Interest. 5th Ed. Public
Health Service, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md.
(1991), expressly incorporated herein by reference). The "EU
numbering system" or "EU index" is generally used when referring to
a residue in an immunoglobulin heavy chain constant region (e.g.,
the EU index reported in Kabat et al., supra; hinge region in
constant domain of heavy chain is approximately residues 216-230
(EU numbering) of the heavy chain). The "EU index as in Kabat"
refers to the residue numbering of the human IgG1 EU antibody.
Unless stated otherwise herein, references to residue numbers in
the variable domain of antibodies means residue numbering by the
Kabat numbering system. Unless stated otherwise herein, references
to residue numbers in the constant domain of antibodies means
residue numbering by the EU numbering system (e.g., see U.S.
Provisional Application No. 60/640,323, Figures for EU
numbering).
[0071] As used herein, "polypeptide" refers generally to peptides
and proteins having more than about ten amino acids. In one
example, the polypeptide is a mammalian protein, examples of which
include Factor D and fragments and/or variants of Factor D. In
another example, the polypeptide is a full length antibody, or
antibody fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), that
binds human Factor D, examples of which include Fab, Fab',
F(ab').sub.2, and F.sub.v fragments; diabodies, linear antibodies;
single-chain antibody molecules; and multispecific antibodies
formed from antibody fragments (e.g. antigen-binding fragment).
[0072] A "variant" or "amino acid sequence variant" of a starting
polypeptide is a polypeptide that comprises an amino acid sequence
different from that of the starting polypeptide. Generally, a
variant will possess at least 80% sequence identity, preferably at
least 90% sequence identity, more preferably at least 95% sequence
identity, and most preferably at least 98% sequence identity with
the native polypeptide. Percentage sequence identity is determined
for example, by the Fitch et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 80:
1382-1386 (1983), version of the algorithm described by Needleman
et al., J. Mol. Biol., 48: 443-453 (1970), after aligning the
sequences to provide for maximum homology. Amino acid sequence
variants of a polypeptide may be prepared by introducing
appropriate nucleotide changes into DNA encoding the polypeptide,
or by peptide synthesis. Such variants include, for example,
deletions from, and/or insertions into and/or substitutions of,
residues within the amino acid sequence of the polypeptide of
interest. Any combination of deletion, insertion, and substitution
is made to arrive at the final construct, provided that the final
construct possesses the desired characteristics. The amino acid
changes also may alter post-translational processes of the
polypeptide, such as changing the number or position of
glycosylation sites. Methods for generating amino acid sequence
variants of polypeptides are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,534,615,
expressly incorporated herein by reference, for example.
[0073] An "antibody variant" or "modified antibody" of a starting
antibody is an antibody that comprises an amino acid sequence
different from that of the starting antibody, wherein one or more
of the amino acid residues of the starting antibody have been
modified. Generally, an antibody variant will possess at least 80%
sequence identity, preferably at least 90% sequence identity, more
preferably at least 95% sequence identity, and most preferably at
least 98% sequence identity with the starting antibody. Percentage
sequence identity is determined for example, by the Fitch et al.,
Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 80: 1382-1386 (1983), version of the
algorithm described by Needleman et al., J. Mol. Biol., 48: 443-453
(1970), after aligning the sequences of the starting antibody and
the candidate antibody variant to provide for maximum homology.
Identity or similarity with respect to the parent sequenced is
defined herein as the percentage of amino acid residues in the
candidate variant sequence that are identical (i.e. same residue)
or similar (i.e. amino acid residue from the same group based on
common side-chain properties, see below) with the parent antibody
residues, after aligning the sequences and introducing gaps, if
necessary, to achieve the maximum percent sequence identity. Amino
acid sequence variants of an antibody may be prepared by
introducing appropriate nucleotide changes into DNA encoding the
antibody, or by peptide synthesis. Such variants include, for
example, deletions from, and/or insertions into and/or
substitutions of, residues within the amino acid sequence of the
antibody of interest. Any combination of deletion, insertion, and
substitution is made to arrive at the final construct, provided
that the final construct possesses the desired characteristics. The
amino acid changes also may alter post-translational processes of
the antibody, such as changing the number or position of
glycosylation sites. Methods for generating antibody sequence
variants of antibodies are similar to those for generating amino
acid sequence variants of polypeptides described in U.S. Pat. No.
5,534,615, expressly incorporated herein by reference, for
example.
[0074] A "deamidated" variant of a polypeptide molecule is a
polypeptide wherein one or more asparagine (N or Asn) residue(s) of
the original polypeptide have been converted to aspartate (D or
Asp), i.e. the neutral amide side chain has been converted to a
residue with an overall acidic character. Deamidation may be
prevented by converting asparagines (N or Asn) to glutamine (Q or
Gln) or alanine (A or Ala) or serine (S or Ser) (Amphlett, G. et
al., Pharm. Biotechnol., 9:1-140 (1996)).
[0075] An "oxidized" variant of a polypeptide molecule is a
polypeptide wherein one or more methionine (M or Met) or tryptophan
(W or Trp) residue(s) of the original polypeptide have been
converted to sulfone or sulfoxide through the sulfur of methionine.
Oxidation may be prevented by converting methionine (M or Met) to
leucine (L or Leu) or isoleucine (I or Ile) (Amphlett, G. et al.,
Pharm. Biotechnol., 9:1-140 (1996)).
[0076] A "pyroglutamate" variant of a polypeptide molecule is a
polypeptide wherein one or more glutamine (Q or Gln) residues(s) of
the original polypeptide have been converted to pyroglutamate which
occurs when glutamine residues, for example N-terminal glutamine
residues, spontaneously cyclize resulting in pyroglutamate.
Pyroglutamate conversion may be prevented by converting glutamine
(Q or Gln) residue(s) to glutamate (E or Glu) (Amphlett, G. et al.,
Pharm. Biotechnol., 9:1-140 (1996)).
[0077] The term "antibody fragment" refers to a portion of a
full-length antibody, generally the target binding or variable
region. Examples of antibody fragments include Fab, Fab',
F(ab').sub.2 and Fv fragments. The phrase "functional fragment or
analog" of an antibody is a compound having qualitative biological
activity in common with a full-length antibody. For example, a
functional fragment or analog of an anti-human Factor D antibody is
one which can bind to Factor D in such a manner so as to prevent or
substantially reduce the complement activation. As used herein,
"functional fragment" with respect to antibodies, refers to Fv,
F(ab) and F(ab').sub.2 fragments. An "Fv" fragment is the minimum
antibody fragment which contains a complete target recognition and
binding site. This region consists of a dimer of one heavy and one
light chain variable domain in a tight, non-covalent association
(V.sub.H-V.sub.L dimer). It is in this configuration that the three
CDRs of each variable domain interact to define an target binding
site on the surface of the V.sub.H-V.sub.L dimer. Collectively, the
six CDRs confer target binding specificity to the antibody.
However, even a single variable domain (or half of an Fv comprising
only three CDRs specific for an target) has the ability to
recognize and bind target. "Single-chain Fv" or "sFv" antibody
fragments comprise the V.sub.H and V.sub.L domains of an antibody,
wherein these domains are present in a single polypeptide chain.
Generally, the Fv polypeptide further comprises a polypeptide
linker between the V.sub.H and V.sub.L domains which enables the
sFv to form the desired structure for target binding.
[0078] The Fab fragment contains the constant domain of the light
chain and the first constant domain (CH1) of the heavy chain. Fab'
fragments differ from Fab fragments by the addition of a few
residues at the carboxyl terminus of the heavy chain CH1 domain
including one or more cysteines from the antibody hinge region.
F(ab') fragments are produced by cleavage of the disulfide bond at
the hinge cysteines of the F(ab').sub.2 pepsin digestion product.
Additional chemical couplings of antibody fragments (e.g.
antigen-binding fragments) are known to those of ordinary skill in
the art.
[0079] As used herein, "library" refers to a plurality of antibody
or antibody fragment sequences (for example, polypeptides of the
invention), or the nucleic acids that encode these sequences, the
sequences being different in the combination of variant amino acids
that are introduced into these sequences according to the methods
of the invention.
[0080] The term "monoclonal antibody" as used herein refers to an
antibody obtained from a population of substantially homogeneous
antibodies, i.e., the individual antibodies comprising the
population are identical except for possible naturally occurring
mutations that may be present in minor amounts. Monoclonal
antibodies are highly specific, being directed against a single
targetic site. Furthermore, in contrast to conventional
(polyclonal) antibody preparations which typically include
different antibodies directed against different determinants
(epitopes), each monoclonal antibody is directed against a single
determinant on the target. In addition to their specificity,
monoclonal antibodies are advantageous in that they may be
synthesized by the hybridoma culture, uncontaminated by other
immunoglobulins. The modifier "monoclonal" indicates the character
of the antibody as being obtained from a substantially homogeneous
population of antibodies, and is not to be construed as requiring
production of the antibody by any particular method. For example,
the monoclonal antibodies for use with the present invention may be
isolated from phage antibody libraries using the well known
techniques. The parent monoclonal antibodies to be used in
accordance with the present invention may be made by the hybridoma
method first described by Kohler and Milstein, Nature 256, 495
(1975), or may be made by recombinant methods.
[0081] "Humanized" forms of non-human (e.g. murine) antibodies are
chimeric immunoglobulins, immunoglobulin chains or fragments
thereof (such as Fv, Fab, Fab', F(ab').sub.2 or other
target-binding subsequences of antibodies) which contain minimal
sequence derived from non-human immunoglobulin. In general, the
humanized antibody will comprise substantially all of at least one,
and typically two, variable domains, in which all or substantially
all of the CDR regions correspond to those of a non-human
immunoglobulin and all or substantially all of the FR regions are
those of a human immunoglobulin consensus sequence. The humanized
antibody may also comprise at least a portion of an immunoglobulin
constant region (Fc), typically that of a human immunoglobulin
template chosen.
[0082] The terms "cell", "cell line" and "cell culture" include
progeny. It is also understood that all progeny may not be
precisely identical in DNA content, due to deliberate or
inadvertent mutations. Variant progeny that have the same function
or biological property, as screened for in the originally
transformed cell, are included. The "host cells" used in the
present invention generally are prokaryotic or eukaryotic
hosts.
[0083] The term "vector" means a DNA construct containing a DNA
sequence which is operably linked to a suitable control sequence
capable of effecting the expression of the DNA in a suitable host.
Such control sequences include a promoter to effect transcription,
an optional operator sequence to control such transcription, a
sequence encoding suitable mRNA ribosome binding sites, and
sequences which control the termination of transcription and
translation. The vector may be a plasmid, a phage particle, or
simply a potential genomic insert. Once transformed into a suitable
host, the vector may replicate and function independently of the
host genome, or may in some instances, integrate into the genome
itself. In the present specification, "plasmid" and "vector" are
sometimes used interchangeably, as the plasmid is the most commonly
used form of vector. However, the invention is intended to include
such other forms of vectors which serve equivalent function as and
which are, or become, known in the art.
[0084] The word "label" when used herein refers to a detectable
compound or composition which can be conjugated directly or
indirectly to a molecule or protein, e.g., an antibody. The label
may itself be detectable (e.g., radioisotope labels or fluorescent
labels) or, in the case of an enzymatic label, may catalyze
chemical alteration of a substrate compound or composition which is
detectable.
[0085] As used herein, "solid phase" means a non-aqueous matrix to
which the antibody of the present invention can adhere. Example of
solid phases encompassed herein include those formed partially or
entirely of glass (e.g. controlled pore glass), polysaccharides
(e.g., agarose), polyacrylamides, polystyrene, polyvinyl alcohol
and silicones. In certain embodiments, depending on the context,
the solid phase can comprise the well of an assay plate; in others
it is a purification column (e.g. an affinity chromatography
column).
[0086] "Phage display" is a technique by which variant polypeptides
are displayed as fusion proteins to at least a portion of coat
protein on the surface of phage, e.g., filamentous phage,
particles. A utility of phage display lies in the fact that large
libraries of randomized protein variants can be rapidly and
efficiently sorted for those sequences that bind to a target
antigen with high affinity. Display of peptide and protein
libraries on phage has been used for screening millions of
polypeptides for ones with specific binding properties. Polyvalent
phage display methods have been used for displaying small random
peptides and small proteins through fusions to either gene III or
gene VIII of filamentous phage. Wells and Lowman (1992) Curr. Opin.
Struct. Biol. 3:355-362, and references cited therein. In a
monovalent phage display, a protein or peptide library is fused to
a gene III or a portion thereof, and expressed at low levels in the
presence of wild type gene III protein so that phage particles
display one copy or none of the fusion proteins. Avidity effects
are reduced relative to polyvalent phage so that sorting is on the
basis of intrinsic ligand affinity, and phagemid vectors are used,
which simplify DNA manipulations. Lowman and Wells (1991) Methods:
A companion to Methods in Enzymology 3:205-0216.
[0087] A "phagemid" is a plasmid vector having a bacterial origin
of replication, e.g., Co1E1, and a copy of an intergenic region of
a bacteriophage. The phagemid may be used on any known
bacteriophage, including filamentous bacteriophage and lambdoid
bacteriophage. The plasmid will also generally contain a selectable
marker for antibiotic resistance. Segments of DNA cloned into these
vectors can be propagated as plasmids. When cells harboring these
vectors are provided with all genes necessary for the production of
phage particles, the mode of replication of the plasmid changes to
rolling circle replication to generate copies of one strand of the
plasmid DNA and package phage particles. The phagemid may form
infectious or non-infectious phage particles. This term includes
phagemids which contain a phage coat protein gene or fragment
thereof linked to a heterologous polypeptide gene as a gene fusion
such that the heterologous polypeptide is displayed on the surface
of the phage particle.
[0088] A "variant Fc region" comprises an amino acid sequence which
differs from that of another Fc region by virtue of at least one
"amino acid modification" as herein defined. Preferably, the
variant Fc region has at least one amino acid substitution compared
to a native sequence Fc region or to the Fc region of a parent
polypeptide, e.g. from about one to about ten amino acid
substitutions, and preferably from about one to about five amino
acid substitutions in a native sequence Fc region or in the Fc
region of the parent polypeptide. The variant Fc region herein will
preferably possess at least about 80% homology with a native
sequence Fc region and/or with an Fc region of a parent
polypeptide, and most preferably at least about 90% homology
therewith, more preferably at least about 95% homology therewith.
Examples of "native sequence human Fc regions" are shown in FIG. 23
of WO 00/42072 and include a native sequence human IgG1 Fc region
(non-A and A allotypes); native sequence human IgG2 Fc region;
native sequence human IgG3 Fc region; and native sequence human
IgG4 Fc region as well as naturally occurring variants thereof.
Native sequence murine Fc regions are shown in FIG. 22A of WO
00/42072.
[0089] According to this invention, "altered" FcRn binding affinity
is one which has either enhanced or diminished FcRn binding
activity compared to a parent polypeptide or to a polypeptide
comprising a native sequence Fc region. In one example, the
antibody with altered FcRn binding affinity has increased binding
to FcRn at pH 6.0 and/or decreased binding to FcRn at pH 7.0. The
variant which "displays increased binding" to an FcR binds at least
one FcR with better affinity that the parent polypeptide. The
variant which "displays decreased binding" to an FcR, binds at
least one FcR with worse affinity than a parent polypeptide. The
variant which binds an FcR with "better affinity" than a parent
polypeptide, is one which binds an FcR with substantially better
binding affinity than the parent antibody, when the amounts of
polypeptide variant and parent polypeptide in the binding assay are
essentially the same. For example, the polypeptide variant with
improved FcR binding affinity may display from about 1.15 fold to
about 100 fold, e.g from about 1.2 fold to about 50 fold
improvement in FcR binding affinity compared to the parent
polypeptide, where FcR binding affinity is determined.
[0090] An "amino acid modification" refers to a change in the amino
acid sequence of a predetermined amino acid sequence. Exemplary
modifications include an amino acid substitution, insertion and/or
deletion. One example of an amino acid modification herein is a
substitution.
[0091] An "amino acid modification at" a specified position, e.g.
of the Fc region, refers to the substitution or deletion of the
specified residues, or the insertion of at least one amino acid
residues adjacent the specified residue. By insertion "adjacent" a
specified residue is meant insertion within one to two residues
thereof. The insertion may be N-terminal or C-terminal to the
specified residue.
[0092] An "amino acid substitution" refers to the replacement of at
least one existing amino acid residue in a predetermined amino acid
sequence with another different "replacement" amino acid residue.
The replacement residue or residues may be "naturally occurring
amino acid residues" (i.e., encoded by the genetic code) and
selected from the group consisting of: alanine (ala); arginine
(Arg); asparagine (Asn); aspartic acid (Asp); cysteine (Cys);
glutamine (Gin); glutamic acid (Glu); glycine (Gly), histidine
(His); isoleucine (Ile); leucine (Leu); lysine (Lys); methionine
(Met); phenylalanine (Phe); proline (Pro); serine (Ser); threonine
(Thr); tryptophan (Trp); tyrosine (Tyr); and valine (Val).
Substitution with one or more non-naturally occurring amino acid
residues is also encompassed by the definition of an amino acid
substitution herein. A "non-naturally occurring amino acid residue"
refers to a residue, other than those naturally occurring amino
acid residues listed above, which is able to covalently bind
adjacent amino acid residue(s) in a polypeptide chain. Examples of
non-naturally occurring amino acid residues include norleucine,
ornithine, norvaline, homoserine and other amino acid residue
analogues such as those described in Ellman et al., Meth. Enzym,
202: 301-336 (1991). To generate such non-naturally occurring amino
acid residues, the procedures of Noren et al., Science, 244: 182
(1989) and Ellman et al., supra, can be used. Briefly, these
procedures involve chemically activating a suppressor tRNA with a
non-naturally occurring amino acid residue followed by in vitro
transcription and translation of the RNA.
[0093] An "amino acid insertion" refers to the incorporation of at
least one amino acid into a predetermined amino acid sequence.
While the insertion will usually consist of the insertion of one or
two amino acid residues, the present application contemplates
larger "peptide insertions", e.g. insertion of about three to about
five or even up to about ten amino acid residues. The inserted
residue(s) may be naturally occurring or non-naturally occurring as
disclosed above.
[0094] An "amino acid deletion" refers to the removal of at least
one amino acid residue from a predetermined amino acid
sequence.
II. Detailed Description
[0095] The invention herein provides Factor D antagonists,
including anti-Factor D antibodies, and variants thereof, and
fragments thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragments) useful for the
prevention and treatment of complement-associated conditions,
including eye conditions (all eye conditions and diseases the
pathology of which involves complement, including the classical and
the alternative pathways, and in particular the alternative pathway
of complement), such as, for example, macular degenerative
diseases, such as all stages of age-related macular degeneration
(AMD), including dry and wet (non-exudative and exudative) forms,
choroidal neovascularization (CNV), uveitis, diabetic and other
ischemia-related retinopathies, endophthalmitis, and other
intraocular neovascular diseases, such as diabetic macular edema,
pathological myopia, von Hippel-Lindau disease, histoplasmosis of
the eye, Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO), corneal
neovascularization, and retinal neovascularization. One group of
complement-associated eye conditions includes age-related macular
degeneration (AMD), including non-exudative (e.g. intermediate dry
AMD or geographic atrophy (GA)) and exudative (e.g. wet AMD
(choroidal neovascularization (CNV)) AMD, diabetic retinopathy
(DR), endophthalmitis and uveitis. In one example,
complement-associated eye condition is intermediate dry AMD. In one
example, complement-associated eye condition is geographic atrophy.
In one example, complement-associated eye condition is wet AMD
(choroidal neovascularization (CNV)).
[0096] AMD is age-related degeneration of the macula, which is the
leading cause of irreversible visual dysfunction in individuals
over the age of 60. Two types of AMD exist, non-exudative (dry) and
exudative (wet) AMD. The dry, or nonexudative, form involves
atrophic and hypertrophic changes in the retinal pigment epithelium
(RPE) underlying the central retina (macula) as well as deposits
(drusen) on the RPE. Patients with nonexudative AMD can progress to
the wet, or exudative, form of AMD, in which abnormal blood vessels
called choroidal neovascular membranes (CNVMs) develop under the
retina, leak fluid and blood, and ultimately cause a blinding
disciform scar in and under the retina. Nonexudative AMD, which is
usually a precursor of exudative AMD, is more common. The
presentation of nonexudative AMD varies: hard drusen, soft drusen,
RPE geographic atrophy, and pigment clumping can be present.
Complement components are deposited on the RPE early in AMD and are
major constituents of drusen.
[0097] 1. Humanized Anti-Factor D Antibodies
[0098] The invention herein includes the production and use of
humanized anti-Factor D antibodies, and fragments thereof.
Exemplary methods for generating antibodies are described in more
detail in the following sections.
[0099] Methods for humanizing non-human antibodies are well known
in the art. Generally, a humanized antibody has one or more amino
acid residues introduced into it from a source which is non-human.
These non-human amino acid residues are often referred to as
"import" residues, which are typically taken from an "import"
variable domain. Humanization can be essentially performed
following the method of Winter and co-workers [Jones et al.,
Nature, 321:522-525 (1986); Riechmann et al., Nature, 332:323-327
(1988); Verhoeyen et al., Science, 239:1534-1536 (1988)], by
substituting rodent CDRs or CDR sequences for the corresponding
sequences of a human antibody. Accordingly, such "humanized"
antibodies are chimeric antibodies (U.S. Pat. No. 4,816,567),
wherein substantially less than an intact human variable domain has
been substituted by the corresponding sequence from a non-human
species. In practice, humanized antibodies are typically human
antibodies in which some CDR residues and possibly some FR residues
are substituted by residues from analogous sites in rodent
antibodies.
[0100] The choice of human variable domains, both light and heavy,
to be used in making the humanized antibodies can in some instances
be important to reduce antigenicity and/or HAMA response (human
anti-mouse antibody) when the antibody is intended for human
therapeutic use. Reduction or elimination of a HAMA response is
generally a significant aspect of clinical development of suitable
therapeutic agents. See, e.g., Khaxzaeli et al., J. Natl. Cancer
Inst. (1988), 80:937; Jaffers et al., Transplantation (1986),
41:572; Shawler et al., J. Immunol. (1985), 135:1530; Sears et al.,
J. Biol. Response Mod. (1984), 3:138; Miller et al., Blood (1983),
62:988; Hakimi et al., J. Immunol. (1991), 147:1352; Reichmann et
al., Nature (1988), 332:323; Junghans et al., Cancer Res. (1990),
50:1495. As described herein, the invention provides antibodies
that are humanized such that HAMA response is reduced or
eliminated. Variants of these antibodies can further be obtained
using routine methods known in the art, some of which are further
described below. According to the so-called "best-fit" method, the
sequence of the variable domain of a rodent antibody is screened
against the entire library of known human variable domain
sequences. The human V domain sequence which is closest to that of
the rodent is identified and the human framework region (FR) within
it accepted for the humanized antibody (Sims et al., J. Immunol.
151:2296 (1993); Chothia et al., J. Mol. Biol., 196:901 (1987)).
Another method uses a particular framework region derived from the
consensus sequence of all human antibodies of a particular subgroup
of light or heavy chains. The same framework may be used for
several different humanized antibodies (Carter et al., Proc. Natl.
Acad. Sci. USA, 89:4285 (1992); Presta et al., J. Immunol. 151:2623
(1993)).
[0101] For example, an amino acid sequence from an antibody as
described herein can serve as a starting (parent) sequence for
diversification of the framework and/or hypervariable sequence(s).
A selected framework sequence to which a starting hypervariable
sequence is linked is referred to herein as an acceptor human
framework. While the acceptor human frameworks may be from, or
derived from, a human immunoglobulin (the VL and/or VH regions
thereof), the acceptor human frameworks may be from, or derived
from, a human consensus framework sequence as such frameworks have
been demonstrated to have minimal, or no, immunogenicity in human
patients. An "acceptor human framework" for the purposes herein is
a framework comprising the amino acid sequence of a VL or VH
framework derived from a human immunoglobulin framework, or from a
human consensus framework. An acceptor human framework "derived
from" a human immunoglobulin framework or human consensus framework
may comprise the same amino acid sequence thereof, or may contain
pre-existing amino acid sequence changes. Where pre-existing amino
acid changes are present, preferably no more than 5 and preferably
4 or less, or 3 or less, pre-existing amino acid changes are
present. In one embodiment, the VH acceptor human framework is
identical in sequence to the VH human immunoglobulin framework
sequence or human consensus framework sequence. In one embodiment,
the VL acceptor human framework is identical in sequence to the VL
human immunoglobulin framework sequence or human consensus
framework sequence. A "human consensus framework" is a framework
which represents the most commonly occurring amino acid residue in
a selection of human immunoglobulin VL or VH framework sequences.
Generally, the selection of human immunoglobulin VL or VH sequences
is from a subgroup of variable domain sequences. Generally, the
subgroup of sequences is a subgroup as in Kabat et al. In one
embodiment, for the VL, the subgroup is subgroup kappa I as in
Kabat et al. In one embodiment, for the VH, the subgroup is
subgroup III as in Kabat et al.
[0102] Where the acceptor is derived from a human immunoglobulin,
one may optionally select a human framework sequence that is
selected based on its homology to the donor framework sequence by
aligning the donor framework sequence with various human framework
sequences in a collection of human framework sequences, and select
the most homologous framework sequence as the acceptor. The
acceptor human framework may be from or derived from human antibody
germline sequences available in the public databases.
[0103] In one embodiment, human consensus frameworks herein are
from, or derived from, VH subgroup VII and/or VL kappa subgroup I
consensus framework sequences.
[0104] In one embodiment, the human framework template used for
generation of an anti-Factor D antibody may comprise framework
sequences from a template comprising a combination of VI-4.1 b+(VH7
family) and JH4d for VH chain and/or a combination of DPK4 (WI
family) and JK2 for VL chain.
[0105] In one embodiment, the VH acceptor human framework comprises
one, two, three or all of the following framework sequences:
TABLE-US-00002 FR1 comprising (amino acids 1-25 of SEQ ID NO: 2)
QVQLVQSGPELKKPGASVKVSCKAS, FR2 comprising (amino acids 36-49 of SEQ
ID NO: 2) WVRQAPGQGLE, FR3 comprising (amino acids 67-98 of SEQ ID
NO: 2) RFVFSLDTSVSTAYLQISSLKAEDTAVYYCER, (amino acids 67-97 of SEQ
ID NO: 2) RFVFSLDTSVSTAYLQISSLKAEDTAVYYCE, (amino acids 67-96 of
SEQ ID NO: 2) RFVFSLDTSVSTAYLQISSLKAEDTAVYYC, (SEQ ID NO: 3)
RFVFSLDTSVSTAYLQISSLKAEDTAVYYCS, or (SEQ ID NO: 4)
RFVFSLDTSVSTAYLQISSLKAEDTAVYYCSR FR4 comprising (amino acids
105-115 of SEQ ID NO: 2) WGQGTLVTVSS.
[0106] In one embodiment, the VL acceptor human framework may
comprise one, two, three or all of the following framework
sequences:
TABLE-US-00003 FR1 comprising (amino acids 1-23 of SEQ ID NO: 1)
DIQVTQSPSSLSASVGDRVTITC, FR2 comprising (amino acids 35-49 of SEQ
ID NO: 1) WYQQKPGKVPKLLIS, FR3 comprising (amino acids 57-88 of SEQ
ID NO: 1) GVPSRFSGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQPEDVATYYC, FR4 comprising (amino
acids 98-107 of SEQ ID NO: 1) FGQGTKLEIK, or (SEQ ID NO: 5)
FGQGTKVEIK.
[0107] While the acceptor may be identical in sequence to the human
framework sequence selected, whether that be from a human
immunoglobulin or a human consensus framework, the present
invention contemplates that the acceptor sequence may comprise
pre-existing amino acid substitutions relative to the human
immunoglobulin sequence or human consensus framework sequence.
These pre-existing substitutions are preferably minimal; usually
four, three, two or one amino acid differences only relative to the
human immunoglobulin sequence or consensus framework sequence.
[0108] Hypervariable region residues of the non-human antibody are
incorporated into the VL and/or VH acceptor human frameworks. For
example, one may incorporate residues corresponding to the Kabat
CDR residues, the Chothia hypervariable loop residues, the Abm
residues, and/or contact residues. Optionally, the extended
hypervariable region residues as follows are incorporated: 24-36 or
24-34 (L1), 46-56 or 50-56 (L2) and 89-97 (L3), 26-35B (H1), 50-65,
47-65 or 49-65 (H2) and 93-102, 94-102, or 95-102 (H3).
[0109] In one aspect, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody comprising a heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID
NO: 2. In one aspect, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody comprising a light chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID
NO: 1. In one aspect, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody comprising a heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID
NO: 2 and a light chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 1. In
one example, the invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor
D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0110] In one aspect, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody comprising a heavy chain variable domain comprising an
amino acid sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%,
96%, 97%, 98% or 99% sequence identity to an amino acid sequence of
SEQ ID NO: 2. In some embodiments, an amino acid sequence having at
least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% or 99% sequence
identity contains substitutions, insertions, or deletions relative
to the reference sequence, but an antibody comprising that amino
acid sequence retains the ability to bind to Factor D. In some
embodiments, a total of 1 to 10 amino acids have been substituted,
inserted, or deleted in a sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2. In some
embodiments, the substitutions, insertions or deletions occur in
regions outside the HVRs (i.e., in the FRs). In some embodiments,
an anti-Factor D antibody comprises a heavy chain variable domain
comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2. In one example,
the invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies
(e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0111] In some embodiments, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody comprising a light chain variable domain comprising an
amino acid sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%,
96%, 97%, 98% or 99% sequence identity to an amino acid sequence of
SEQ ID NO: 1. In some embodiments, an amino acid sequence having at
least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% or 99% sequence
identity contains substitutions, insertions, or deletions relative
to the reference sequence, but an antibody comprising that amino
acid sequence retains the ability to bind to Factor D. In some
embodiments, a total of 1 to 10 amino acids have been substituted,
inserted, or deleted in a sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1. In some
embodiments, the substitutions, insertions or deletions occur in
regions outside the HVRs (i.e., in the FRs). In some embodiments,
an anti-Factor D antibody comprises a light chain variable domain
comprising an amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1. In one example,
the invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies
(e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0112] An anti-Factor D antibody may comprise any suitable
framework variable domain sequence, provided that the antibody
retains the ability to bind Factor D. For example, in some
embodiments, anti-Factor D antibodies of the invention comprise a
heavy chain variable domain framework sequence that is a
combination of VI.4.1 b+ and JH4d (See FIG. 3). In some
embodiments, anti-Factor D antibodies of the invention comprise a
human subgroup VII heavy chain framework consensus sequence. In
some embodiments, anti-Factor D antibodies of the invention
comprise a heavy chain variable domain framework sequence
comprising FR1 comprising amino acids 1-25 of SEQ ID NO: 2, FR2
comprising amino acids 36-49 of SEQ ID NO: 2, FR3 comprising amino
acids 67-98 of SEQ ID NO: 2 and FR4 comprising amino acids 105-115
of SEQ ID NO: 2 In one embodiment of these antibodies, the heavy
chain variable domain sequence comprises substitution(s) at
position 40 and/or 88 (Kabat numbering). In one embodiment of these
antibodies, position 40 is cysteine (C) or alanine (A) and/or
position 88 is cysteine (C) or alanine (A). In some embodiments,
anti-Factor D antibodies of the invention comprise a light chain
variable domain framework sequence that is a combination of DPK4
and JK2 (See FIG. 4). In some embodiments, anti-Factor D antibodies
of the invention comprise a human kappa I (KI) light chain
framework consensus sequence. In some embodiments, anti-Factor D
antibodies of the invention comprise a light chain variable domain
framework sequence comprising FR1 comprising amino acids 1-23 of
SEQ ID NO: 1, FR2 comprising amino acids 35-49 of SEQ ID NO: 1, FR3
comprising amino acids 57-88 of SEQ ID NO: 1 and FR4 comprising
amino acids 98-107 of SEQ ID NO: 1. In one embodiment of these
antibodies, the light chain variable framework sequence comprises
one or more substitution(s) at position 15, 43 and/or 104, (Kabat
numbering). In one embodiment of these antibodies, position 15 is
cysteine (C) or valine (V), position 43 is cysteine (C) or alanine
(A), position 104 is valine (V) or leucine (L). In one example, the
invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies
(e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0113] Further, an anti-Factor D antibody may comprise any suitable
constant domain sequence, provided that the antibody retains the
ability to bind Factor D. For example, in some embodiments,
anti-Factor D antibodies of the invention comprise at least a
portion of a heavy chain constant domain. In one embodiment,
anti-Factor D antibodies of the invention comprise a heavy chain
constant domain of either one or a combination of an a, 6, E, y, or
p heavy chain. Depending on the amino acid sequence of the constant
domain of their heavy chains (C.sub.H), immunoglobulins can be
assigned to different classes or isotypes. There are five classes
of immunoglobulins: IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM, having heavy
chains designated a, 6, E, y, and p, respectively. The y and a
classes are further divided into subclasses on the basis of
relatively minor differences in C.sub.H sequence and function,
e.g., humans express the following subclasses: IgG1, IgG2, IgG3,
IgG4, IgA1, and IgA2. In one embodiment, anti-Factor D antibodies
of the invention comprise a heavy chain constant domain comprising
substitutions at amino acid positions that results in a desired
effect on effector function (e.g., binding affinity). In one
embodiment, anti-Factor D antibodies of the invention comprise a
heavy chain constant domain comprising substitutions at amino acid
positions that do not result in an effect on effector function
(e.g., binding affinity). In one embodiment, anti-Factor D
antibodies of the invention comprise a heavy chain constant domain
of the IgG type (e.g. IgG1, IgG2, IgG3 or IgG4) and further
comprise a substitution at position 114 (Kabat numbering;
equivalent to 118 in EU numbering), 168 (Kabat numbering;
equivalent to 172 in EU numbering), 172 (Kabat numbering;
equivalent to 176 in EU numbering) and/or 228 (EU numbering). In
one embodiment, anti-Factor D antibodies of the invention comprise
a heavy chain constant domain of the IgG (e.g. IgG1, IgG2, IgG3 or
IgG4) type and further comprise a substitution at position 114
wherein position 114 is a cysteine (C) or alanine (A), position 168
is cysteine (C) or alanine (A), position 172 is a cysteine (C) or
alanine (A) and/or position 228 is a proline (P), arginine (R) or
serine (S). In one example, the invention provides a fragment of
said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0114] Further, for example, in some embodiments, anti-Factor D
antibodies of the invention comprise at least a portion of a light
chain constant domain. In one embodiment, anti-Factor D antibodies
of the invention comprise a light chain constant domain of either
one or a combination of a kappa or a lambda light chain, as the
light chain from any vertebrate species can be assigned to one of
two clearly distinct types, called kappa and lambda, based on the
amino acid sequences of their constant domains. In one embodiment,
anti-Factor D antibodies of the invention comprise a light chain
constant domain comprising substitutions at amino acid positions
that results in a desired effect on effector function (e.g.,
binding affinity). In one embodiment, anti-Factor D antibodies of
the invention comprise a light chain constant domain comprising
substitutions at amino acid positions that do not result in an
effect on effector function (e.g., binding affinity). In one
embodiment, anti-Factor D antibodies of the invention comprise a
light chain constant domain of the kappa type and further comprise
a substitution at position 110, 144, 146 and/or 168 (Kabat
numbering). In one embodiment, anti-Factor D antibodies of the
invention comprise a light chain constant domain of the kappa type
and further comprise a substitution at position 110 wherein 110 is
a cysteine (C) or valine (V), at position 144 wherein 144 is a
cysteine (C) or alanine (A), at position 146 wherein 146 is a
isoleucine (I) or valine (V) and/or at position 168 wherein 168 is
a cysteine (C) or serine (S). In one example, the invention
provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g.
antigen-binding fragments).
[0115] 2. Modified Anti-Factor D Antibodies
[0116] The invention herein includes the production and use of
modified anti-Factor D antibodies, for example modified humanized
anti-Factor D antibodies, and variants thereof, and fragments
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragments). Exemplary methods for
generating modified antibodies are described in more detail in the
following sections.
[0117] A parent anti-Factor D antibody, including a humanized
anti-Factor D antibody, can be modified to generate modified
anti-Factor D antibodies, and variants thereof. In one embodiment,
the modified anti-Factor D antibodies, and variants thereof, may
have improved physical, chemical, biological or homogeneity
properties over the parent antibody. In one example, the invention
provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g.
antigen-binding fragments).
[0118] In one embodiment, an antibody of this invention comprises
one or more amino acid alterations (e.g. substitutions) into one or
more of the hypervariable regions of the parent antibody.
Alternatively, or in addition, one or more alterations (e.g.
substitutions) of framework region residues may be introduced in
the parent antibody. Examples of framework region residues to
modify include those which non-covalently bind antigen directly
(Amit et al., (1986) Science, 233: 747-753); interact with/effect
the conformation of a CDR (Chothia et al. (1987) J. Mol. Biol.,
196: 901-917), and/or participate in the V.sub.L-V.sub.H interface
(EP 239 40061). In certain embodiments, modification of one or more
of such framework region residues results in an enhancement of the
binding affinity of the antibody for the antigen. For example, from
about one to about 5 framework residues may be altered in this
embodiment of the invention. Examples of framework or HVR region
residues to modify include sites, wherein modifications at such
sites result in the generation of deamidated variants (for example,
asparagine (N or Asn) residue(s) modified to aspartate (D or Asp),
oxidation variants (for example, methionine (M or Met) residue(s)
and/or tryptophan (W or Trp) residue(s) modified to sulfone or
sulfoxide) or pyroglutamate variants (for example, glutamine (Q or
Gln) residue(s) modified to pyroglutamate). Examples of framework
region residues or HVR region residues to modify include possible
deamidation sites (i.e. asparagine (N or Asn)), oxidation sites
(i.e. methionine (M or Met) or tryptophan (W or Trp)) or
pyroglutamate conversion sites (i.e. glutamine (Q or Gln)), wherein
modification at such sites prevent deamidation and/or oxidation
and/or pyroglutamate conversion, respectively. To prevent the
formation of deamidated variants, asparagine (N or Asn) may be
mutated to alanine (A or Ala), glutamine (Q or Gln) or serine (S or
Ser). To prevent the formation of oxidated variants, methionine
(Met) or tryptophan (W or Trp) may be mutated to leucine (L) or
isoleucine (I). To prevent the formation of pyroglutamate variants,
glutamine (Q or Gln) may be mutated to glutamate (E or Glu).
(Amphlett, G. et al., Pharm. Biotechnol., 9:1-140 (1996)).
Alternatively, or in addition, one or more alterations (e.g.
substitutions) of framework region residues may be in the Fc region
in the parent antibody. In one example, the invention provides a
fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding
fragments).
[0119] In one embodiment, an antibody of this invention comprises a
variant Fc region such that the half-life of the antibody in vivo
is increased or decreased relative to the parent antibody or the
antibody comprising a native sequence Fc region. In one embodiment,
the antibody comprises an variant Fc region that increases or
decreases neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) binding affinity to the
antibody (see WO2000042072, incorporated by reference in its
entirety). For example, such antibody can comprise an amino acid
modification at any one or more of amino acid positions 238, 252,
253, 254, 255, 256, 265, 272, 286, 288, 303, 305, 307, 309, 311,
312, 317, 340, 356, 360, 362, 376, 378, 380, 382, 386, 388, 400,
413, 415, 424, 433, 434, 435, 436, 439 or 447 of the Fc region,
wherein the numbering of the residues in the Fc region is that of
the EU index as in Kabat. Such polypeptide variants with reduced
binding to an FcRn may comprise an amino acid modification at any
one or more of amino acid positions 252, 253, 254, 255, 288, 309,
386, 388, 400, 415, 433, 435, 436, 439 or 447 of the Fc region,
wherein the numbering of the residues in the Fc region is that of
the EU index as in Kabat. The above-mentioned polypeptide variants
may, alternatively, display increased binding to FcRn and comprise
an amino acid modification at any one or more of amino acid
positions 238, 256, 265, 272, 286, 303, 305, 307, 311, 312, 317,
340, 356, 360, 362, 376, 378, 380, 382, 413, 424 or 434 of the Fc
region, wherein the numbering of the residues in the Fc region is
that of the EU index as in Kabat. For example, the antibody
comprises a variant Fc region that binds with increased half-life
in vivo relative to the parent antibody or the antibody comprising
a native sequence Fc region. For example, the antibody comprises a
variant Fc region that binds with increased affinity to FcRn
relative to the parent antibody or the antibody comprising a native
sequence Fc region.
[0120] FcRn binding affinity may be measured as follows:
[0121] The binding of antibodies of this invention against human
FcRn can be studied by surface plasmon resonance using, for
example, a BiaCore 3000 instrument. Human FcRn is coupled to a
sensor chip using an amine coupling kit. For example, a CM5 sensor
chip can be activated with EDC/NHS for 7 min at 5 .mu.l/min. 100
.mu.g/ml of human FcRn can be injected for 30 sec to 2 min at a
flow rate of 10 .mu.I/min over the activated chip to give a final
binding response unit (RU) of 100 to 200. After conjugation, the
FcRn coupled chip can be blocked by an injection of 35 .mu.l of 1M
ethanolamine hydrochloride at 5 .mu.l/min.
[0122] The binding of the antibodies of this invention to human
FcRn at pH 6.0 or pH 7.4 can be determined. The running buffer for
the binding experiment is either PBS pH 6.0 or pH 7.4 containing
0.01% P20 and 0.02% sodium azide. Antibodies of this invention can
be buffer-exchanged into either pH 6.0 or pH 7.4 running buffer. In
one embodiment, the experiments are performed at 25.degree. C. For
the pH 6.0 run, antibodies, with concentrations ranging from 4
.mu.M to 0.7 nM, are flowed over an FcRn coated chip at 30
.mu.I/min for 4 min and then are allowed to dissociate from the
chip for 5 min. For the pH 7.4 run, antibodies, with concentrations
ranging from 12 .mu.M to 100 nM, are injected over the FcRn coated
chip at 20 .mu.I/min for 1.5 min and then released for 2 min.
Antibodies are also flowed over an unconjugated spot on the sensor
chip to allow subtraction of background non-specific binding from
the binding to FcRn-coupled chip. Chip can be regenerated with 30
sec pulse of 0.1M TRIS pH 8.3 in between injections. Steady state
RU for each injection can be recorded at the end of each injection
phase, and dissociation constants (K.sub.D) are later calculated by
plotting the steady state RU against injection concentration.
[0123] One useful procedure for generating such modified
antibodies, and fragments thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragments)
and variants thereof, is called "alanine scanning mutagenesis"
(Cunningham and Wells (1989) Science 244:1081-1085). Here, one or
more of the hypervariable region residue(s) are replaced by alanine
or polyalanine residue(s) to affect the interaction of the amino
acids with the antigen. Those hypervariable region residue(s)
demonstrating functional sensitivity to the substitutions then are
refined by introducing further or other mutations at or for the
sites of substitution. Thus, while the site for introducing an
amino acid sequence variation is predetermined, the nature of the
mutation per se need not be predetermined. The ala-mutants produced
this way are screened for their biological activity (i.e. binding
affinity or hemolysis assay) as described herein.
[0124] Normally one would start with a conservative substitution
such as those shown below under the heading of "preferred
substitutions". If such substitutions result in a change in
biological activity (e.g. binding affinity), then more substantial
changes, denominated "exemplary substitutions" in the following
table, or as further described below in reference to amino acid
classes, are introduced and the products screened. Preferred
substitutions are listed in the table below.
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 1 Preferred Substitutions Original Exemplary
Preferred Residue Substitutions Substitutions Ala (A) val; leu; ile
val Arg (R) lys; gln; asn lys Asn (N) gln; his; lys; arg gln Asp
(D) Glu glu Cys (C) Ser ser Gln (Q) Asn asn Glu (E) Asp asp Gly (G)
pro; ala ala His (H) asn; gln; lys; arg arg Ile (I) leu; val; met;
ala; phe; norleucine leu Leu (L) norleucine; ile; val; met; ala;
phe ile Lys (K) arg; gln; asn arg Met (M) leu; phe; ile leu Phe (F)
leu; val; ile; ala; tyr leu Pro (P) Ala ala Ser (S) Thr thr Thr (T)
Ser ser Trp (W) tyr; phe tyr Tyr (Y) trp; phe; thr; ser phe Val (V)
ile; leu; met; phe; ala; norleucine leu
[0125] Even more substantial modifications in the antibodies or
fragments thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragments) biological
properties are accomplished by selecting substitutions that differ
significantly in their effect on maintaining (a) the structure of
the polypeptide backbone in the area of the substitution, for
example, as a sheet or helical conformation, (b) the charge or
hydrophobicity of the molecule at the target site, or (c) the bulk
of the side chain. Naturally occurring residues are divided into
groups based on common side-chain properties: [0126] (1)
hydrophobic: norleucine, met, ala, val, leu, ile; [0127] (2)
neutral hydrophilic: cys, ser, thr, asn, gln; [0128] (3) acidic:
asp, glu; [0129] (4) basic: his, lys, arg; [0130] (5) residues that
influence chain orientation: gly, pro; and [0131] (6) aromatic:
trp, tyr, phe.
[0132] Non-conservative substitutions will entail exchanging a
member of one of these classes for another class.
[0133] In another embodiment, the sites selected for modification
are modified, and those modifications with improved binding
affinity are selected by phage display.
[0134] Nucleic acid molecules encoding amino acid sequence mutants
or modified amino acid sequences are prepared by a variety of
methods known in the art. These methods include, but are not
limited to, oligonucleotide-mediated (or site-directed)
mutagenesis, PCR mutagenesis, and cassette mutagenesis of an
earlier prepared variant or a non-variant version of the parent
antibody. One method for making mutants or variants or modified
amino acid sequences is site directed mutagenesis (see, e.g.,
Kunkel (1985) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 82:488).
[0135] In certain embodiments, the modified antibody will only have
a single hypervariable region residue substituted. In other
embodiments, two or more of the hypervariable region residues of
the parent antibody will have been substituted, e.g. from about two
to about ten hypervariable region substitutions. In one example,
the invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies
(e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0136] Ordinarily, the modified antibody will have an amino acid
sequence having at least 75% amino acid sequence identity or
similarity (defined above in Definition section) with the amino
acid sequence of either the heavy or light chain variable domain of
the parent antibody, more preferably at least 80%, more preferably
at least 85%, more preferably at least 90%, and most preferably at
least 95%. In one example, the invention provides a fragment of
said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0137] Following production of the modified antibody, or fragment
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment) the biological activity of
that molecule relative to the parent antibody, or fragment thereof
(e.g. antigen-binding fragment) is determined. As noted above, this
may involve determining the binding affinity and/or other
biological activities of the antibody variant, or fragment thereof
(e.g. antigen-binding fragment). In one embodiment of the
invention, a panel of modified antibodies, or fragments thereof
(e.g. antigen-binding fragments) is prepared and screened for
binding affinity for the antigen such as Factor D or a fragment
thereof. One or more of the antibody mutants or modified
antibodies, or fragments thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragments)
selected from this initial screen are optionally subjected to one
or more further biological activity assays to confirm that the
antibody variant(s), or fragments thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragments) are indeed useful, e.g. for preclinical studies.
[0138] The modified anti-Factor D antibodies, or fragments thereof
(e.g. antigen-binding fragments) described herein may be subjected
to further modifications, oftentimes depending on the intended use
of the modified antibody, or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment). Such modifications may involve further alteration of the
amino acid sequence, fusion to heterologous polypeptide(s) and/or
covalent modifications such as those elaborated below. With respect
to amino acid sequence alterations, exemplary modifications are
elaborated above. For example, any cysteine residue not involved in
maintaining the proper conformation of the modified antibody also
may be substituted, generally with serine, to improve the oxidative
stability of the molecule and prevent aberrant cross linking.
Conversely, cysteine bond(s) may be added to the antibody to
improve its stability (particularly where the antibody is an
antibody fragment such as an Fv fragment). Another type of amino
acid mutant has an altered glycosylation pattern. This may be
achieved by deleting one or more carbohydrate moieties found in the
antibody, and/or adding one or more glycosylation sites that are
not present in the antibody. Glycosylation of antibodies, or
antibody fragments (e.g. antigen-binding fragments) is typically
either N-linked or O-linked. N-linked refers to the attachment of
the carbohydrate moiety to the side chain of an asparagine residue.
The tripeptide sequences asparagine-X-serine and
asparagine-X-threonine, where X is any amino acid except proline,
are the recognition sequences for enzymatic attachment of the
carbohydrate moiety to the asparagine side chain. Thus, the
presence of either of these tripeptide sequences in a polypeptide
creates a potential glycosylation site. O-linked glycosylation
refers to the attachment of one of the sugars N-aceylgalactosamine,
galactose, or xylose to a hydroxyamino acid, most commonly serine
or threonine, although 5-hydroxyproline or 5-hydroxylysine may also
be used. Addition of glycosylation sites to the antibody is
conveniently accomplished by altering the amino acid sequence such
that it contains one or more of the above-described tripeptide
sequences (for N-linked glycosylation sites). The alteration may
also be made by the addition of, or substitution by, one or more
serine or threonine residues to the sequence of the original
antibody (for O-linked glycosylation sites).
[0139] In one embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody, of a parent anti-Factor D antibody of the
application, wherein the modified anti-Factor D antibody comprises
the amino acid sequence of such parent anti-Factor D antibody of
the application, wherein at least one position (according to Kabat
numbering) of the amino acid sequence of such parent anti-Factor D
antibody of the application is substituted with one or more of the
following: [0140] (a) amino acid at position 33 of the light chain
is L or I; [0141] (b) amino acid at position 34 of the light chain
is A or Q; [0142] (c) amino acid at position 52 of the light chain
is S or A; [0143] (d) amino acid at position 104 of the light chain
is V. In one example, the invention provides a fragment of said
anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding fragment).
[0144] In one embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of a parent anti-Factor D antibody of the
application, wherein the modified anti-Factor D antibody variant
comprises the amino acid sequence of such parent anti-Factor D
antibody of the application, wherein at least one position
(according to Kabat numbering) of the amino acid sequence of such
parent anti-Factor D antibody of the application is substituted
with one or more of the following: [0145] (a) amino acid at
position 1 of the heavy chain is E; [0146] (b) amino acid at
position 99 of the heavy chain is A or Q; or [0147] (c) amino acid
at position 100 of the heavy chain is A or Q. In one example, the
invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibody (e.g.
antigen-binding fragment).
[0148] In one embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of a parent anti-Factor D antibody of the
application, wherein the modified anti-Factor D antibody comprises
the amino acid sequence of such parent anti-Factor D antibody of
the application, wherein at least one position (according to Kabat
numbering) of the amino acid sequence of such parent anti-Factor D
antibody of the application is substituted with one or more of the
following: [0149] (a) amino acid at position 33 of the light chain
is L or I; [0150] (b) amino acid at position 34 of the light chain
is A or Q; [0151] (c) amino acid at position 52 of the light chain
is S or A; [0152] (d) amino acid at position 104 of the light chain
is V; [0153] (e) amino acid at position 1 of the heavy chain is E;
[0154] (f) amino acid at position 99 of the heavy chain is A or Q;
or [0155] (g) amino acid at position 100 of the heavy chain is A or
Q. In one example, the invention provides a fragment of said
anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding fragment).
[0156] In one embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of a parent anti-Factor D antibody of the
application, wherein the modified anti-Factor D antibody comprises
the amino acid sequence of such parent anti-Factor D antibody of
the application, wherein at least two positions (according to Kabat
numbering) of the amino acid sequence of such parent anti-Factor D
antibody of the application is substituted with one or more of the
following: [0157] (a) amino acid at position 33 of the light chain
is L or I; [0158] (b) amino acid at position 34 of the light chain
is A or Q; [0159] (c) amino acid at position 52 of the light chain
is S or A; [0160] (d) amino acid at position 104 of the light chain
is V.
[0161] In one embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of a parent anti-Factor D antibody of the
application, wherein the modified anti-Factor D antibody comprises
the amino acid sequence of such parent anti-Factor D antibody of
the application, wherein at least two positions (according to Kabat
numbering) of the amino acid sequence of such parent anti-Factor D
antibody of the application is substituted with one or more of the
following: [0162] (a) amino acid at position 1 of the heavy chain
is E; [0163] (b) amino acid at position 99 of the heavy chain is A
or Q; or [0164] (c) amino acid at position 100 of the heavy chain
is A or Q. In one example, the invention provides a fragment of
said anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding fragment).
[0165] In one embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of a parent anti-Factor D antibody of the
application, wherein the modified anti-Factor D antibody comprises
the amino acid sequence of such parent anti-Factor D antibody of
the application, wherein at least two positions (according to Kabat
numbering) of the amino acid sequence of such parent anti-Factor D
antibody of the application is substituted with one or more of the
following: [0166] (a) amino acid at position 33 of the light chain
is L or I; [0167] (b) amino acid at position 34 of the light chain
is A or Q; [0168] (c) amino acid at position 52 of the light chain
is S or A; [0169] (d) amino acid at position 104 of the light chain
is V; [0170] (e) amino acid at position 1 of the heavy chain is E;
[0171] (f) amino acid at position 99 of the heavy chain is A or Q;
or [0172] (g) amino acid at position 100 of the heavy chain is A or
Q. In one example, the invention provides a fragment of said
anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding fragment).
[0173] In one embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of a parent anti-Factor D antibody of the
application, wherein the modified anti-Factor D antibody comprises
the amino acid sequence of such parent anti-Factor D antibody of
the application, wherein at least three positions (according to
Kabat numbering) of the amino acid sequence of such parent
anti-Factor D antibody of the application is substituted with one
or more of the following: [0174] (a) amino acid at position 33 of
the light chain is L or I; [0175] (b) amino acid at position 34 of
the light chain is A or Q; [0176] (c) amino acid at position 52 of
the light chain is S or A; [0177] (d) amino acid at position 104 of
the light chain is V. In one example, the invention provides a
fragment of said anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment).
[0178] In one embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of a parent anti-Factor D antibody of the
application, wherein the modified anti-Factor D antibody comprises
the amino acid sequence of such parent anti-Factor D antibody of
the application, wherein at least three positions (according to
Kabat numbering) of the amino acid sequence of such parent
anti-Factor D antibody of the application is substituted with one
or more of the following: [0179] (a) amino acid at position 1 of
the heavy chain is E; [0180] (b) amino acid at position 99 of the
heavy chain is A or Q; or [0181] (c) amino acid at position 100 of
the heavy chain is A or Q. In one example, the invention provides a
fragment of said anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment).
[0182] In one embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of a parent anti-Factor D antibody of the
application, wherein the modified anti-Factor D antibody comprises
the amino acid sequence of such parent anti-Factor D antibody of
the application, wherein at least three positions (according to
Kabat numbering) of the amino acid sequence of such parent
anti-Factor D antibody of the application is substituted with one
or more of the following: [0183] (a) amino acid at position 33 of
the light chain is L or I; [0184] (b) amino acid at position 34 of
the light chain is A or Q; [0185] (c) amino acid at position 52 of
the light chain is S or A; [0186] (d) amino acid at position 104 of
the light chain is V; [0187] (e) amino acid at position 1 of the
heavy chain is E; [0188] (f) amino acid at position 99 of the heavy
chain is A or Q; or [0189] (g) amino acid at position 100 of the
heavy chain is A or Q. In one example, the invention provides a
fragment of said anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment).
[0190] In one embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody comprising light chain HVRs of a reference antibody,
wherein said anti-Factor D antibody further comprises a
substitution at one or more positions of said reference antibody,
wherein said reference antibody comprises light chain HVR-1
comprising ITSTDIDDDMN (SEQ ID NO: 30), light chain HVR-2
comprising GGNTLRP (SEQ ID NO: 35), and light chain HVR-3
comprising LQSDSLPYT (SEQ ID NO: 38), and wherein said substitution
is one or more of the following: [0191] (a) amino acid at position
33 of the light chain is L or I; [0192] (b) amino acid at position
34 of the light chain is A or Q; [0193] (c) amino acid at position
52 of the light chain is S or A; [0194] (d) amino acid at position
104 of the light chain is V; [0195] (e) amino acid at position 1 of
the heavy chain is E; [0196] (f) amino acid at position 99 of the
heavy chain is A or Q; or [0197] (g) amino acid at position 100 of
the heavy chain is A or Q. In one example, the invention provides a
fragment of said anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment).
[0198] In one embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody comprising heavy chain HVRs of a reference antibody,
wherein said anti-Factor D antibody further comprises a
substitution at one or more positions of said reference antibody,
wherein said reference antibody comprises heavy chain HVR-1
comprising GYTFTNYGMN (SEQ ID NO: 39), heavy chain HVR-2 comprising
WINTYTGETTYADDFKG (SEQ ID NO: 40), and heavy chain HVR-3 comprising
EGGVNN (SEQ ID NO: 41), and wherein said substitution is one or
more of the following: [0199] (a) amino acid at position 33 of the
light chain is L or I; [0200] (b) amino acid at position 34 of the
light chain is A or Q; [0201] (c) amino acid at position 52 of the
light chain is S or A; [0202] (d) amino acid at position 104 of the
light chain is V' [0203] (e) amino acid at position 1 of the heavy
chain is E; [0204] (f) amino acid at position 99 of the heavy chain
is A or Q; or [0205] (g) amino acid at position 100 of the heavy
chain is A or Q. In one example, the invention provides a fragment
of said anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding fragment).
[0206] In one embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody comprising light chain HVRs and heavy chain HVRs of a
reference antibody, wherein said anti-Factor D antibody further
comprises a substitution at one or more positions of said reference
antibody, wherein said reference antibody comprises light chain
HVR-1 comprising ITSTDIDDDMN (SEQ ID NO: 30), light chain HVR-2
comprising GGNTLRP (SEQ ID NO: 35), and light chain HVR-3
comprising LQSDSLPYT (SEQ ID NO: 38), and heavy chain HVR-1
comprising GYTFTNYGMN (SEQ ID NO: 39), heavy chain HVR-2 comprising
WINTYTGETTYADDFKG (SEQ ID NO: 40), and heavy chain HVR-3 comprising
EGGVNN (SEQ ID NO: 41), and wherein said substitution is one or
more of the following: [0207] (a) amino acid at position 33 of the
light chain is L or I; [0208] (b) amino acid at position 34 of the
light chain is A or Q; [0209] (c) amino acid at position 52 of the
light chain is S or A; [0210] (d) amino acid at position 104 of the
light chain is V; [0211] (e) amino acid at position 1 of the heavy
chain is E; [0212] (f) amino acid at position 99 of the heavy chain
is A or Q; or [0213] (g) amino acid at position 100 of the heavy
chain is A or Q. In one example, the invention provides a fragment
of said anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding fragment).
[0214] In one aspect, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody comprising: [0215] (a) at least one, two, three, four,
five or six HVRs selected from: [0216] (i) an HVR-H1 comprising an
amino acid sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%,
96%, 97%, 98% or 99% sequence identity to an amino acid sequence
selected from SEQ ID NO: 39; [0217] (ii) an HVR-H2 comprising an
amino acid sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%,
96%, 97%, 98% or 99% sequence identity to an amino acid sequence
selected from SEQ ID NO: 40; [0218] (iii) an HVR-H3 comprising an
amino acid sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%,
96%, 97%, 98% or 99% sequence identity to an amino acid sequence
selected from SEQ ID NO: 41, SEQ ID NO: 42, SEQ ID NO: 43, SEQ ID
NO: 44 and SEQ ID NO: 45; [0219] (iv) an HVR-L1 comprising an amino
acid sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%,
97%, 98% or 99% sequence identity to an amino acid sequence
selected from SEQ ID NO: 30, SEQ ID NO: 31, SEQ ID NO: 32, SEQ ID
NO: 33 and SEQ ID NO: 34; [0220] (v) an HVR-L2 comprising an amino
acid sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%,
97%, 98% or 99% sequence identity to an amino acid sequence
selected from SEQ ID NO: 35, SEQ ID NO: 36 and SEQ ID NO: 37; and
[0221] (vi) an HVR-L3 comprising an amino acid sequence having at
least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% or 99% sequence
identity to an amino acid sequence selected from SEQ ID NO: 38; or
[0222] (b) at least one variant HVR, wherein the variant HVR
comprises modification of at least one residue of the sequence
depicted in SEQ ID NO: 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 30, 31, 32, 33,
34, 35, 36, 37 or 38. In one example, the invention provides a
fragment of said anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment).
[0223] In some embodiments, an HVR having an amino acid sequence
having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98% or 99%
sequence identity contains substitutions, insertions, or deletions
relative to the reference sequence, but an antibody comprising that
amino acid sequence retains the ability to bind to Factor D. In
some embodiments, a total of 1 to 10 amino acids have been
substituted, inserted, or deleted in the reference sequence
selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 39, SEQ ID NO: 40,
SEQ ID NO: 41, SEQ ID NO: 42, SEQ ID NO: 43, SEQ ID NO: 44, SEQ ID
NO: 45, SEQ ID NO: 30, SEQ ID NO: 31, SEQ ID NO: 32, SEQ ID NO: 33,
SEQ ID NO: 34, SEQ ID NO: 35, SEQ ID NO: 36, SEQ ID NO: 37 and SEQ
ID NO: 38.
[0224] In one aspect, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody comprising: [0225] (a) at least one, two, three, four,
five or six HVRs selected from: [0226] (i) an HVR-H1 comprising the
amino acid sequence selected from SEQ ID NO: 39; [0227] (ii) an
HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 40; [0228]
(iii) an HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid sequence selected from
SEQ ID NO: 41, SEQ ID NO: 42, SEQ ID NO: 43, SEQ ID NO: 44 and SEQ
ID NO: 45; [0229] (iv) an HVR-L1 comprising the amino acid sequence
selected from SEQ ID NO: 30, SEQ ID NO: 31, SEQ ID NO: 32, SEQ ID
NO: 33 and SEQ ID NO: 34; [0230] (v) an HVR-L2 comprising the amino
acid sequence selected from SEQ ID NO: 35, SEQ ID NO: 36 and SEQ ID
NO: 37; and [0231] (vi) an HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid
sequence selected from SEQ ID NO: 38; or [0232] (b) at least one
variant HVR, wherein the variant HVR comprises modification of at
least one residue of the sequence depicted in SEQ ID NO: 39, 40,
41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37 or 38. In one
example, the invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D
antibody (e.g. antigen-binding fragment).
[0233] In one embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody comprising an HVR-H1 comprising the amino
acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 39. In another embodiment, the
invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising an
HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 40. In
another embodiment, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D
antibody comprising an HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid sequence of
SEQ ID NO: 41. In another embodiment, the invention provides a
modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising an HVR-L1 comprising the
amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 30. In another embodiment, the
invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising an
HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 35. In
another embodiment, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D
antibody comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 38. In
one example, the invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor
D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0234] In another embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody comprising an HVR-H1 comprising the amino
acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 39, an HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO: 40, and an HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO: 41. In one example, the invention provides a
fragment of said anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment).
[0235] In another embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody comprising an HVR-L1 comprising the amino
acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 30, an HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO: 35, and an HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO: 38. In one example, the invention provides a
fragment of said anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment).
[0236] In another embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody comprising an HVR-H1 comprising the amino
acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 39, an HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO: 40, an HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO: 41, an HVR-L1 comprising the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO: 30, an HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO: 35, and an HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid
sequence of SEQ ID NO: 38. In one example, the invention provides a
fragment of said anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment).
[0237] In one aspect, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody comprising a heavy chain variable domain comprising an
amino acid sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%,
96%, 97%, 98% or 99% sequence identity to an amino acid sequence
selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 18, 19, 20, 21,
22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 and 29. In some embodiments, an amino
acid sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%,
97%, 98% or 99% sequence identity contains substitutions,
insertions, or deletions relative to the reference sequence, but an
antibody comprising that amino acid sequence retains the ability to
bind to Factor D. In some embodiments, a total of 1 to 10 amino
acids have been substituted, inserted, or deleted in a sequence
selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 18, 19, 20, 21,
22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 and 29. In some embodiments, the
substitutions, insertions or deletions occur in regions outside the
HVRs (i.e., in the FRs). In some embodiments, a modified
anti-Factor D antibody comprises a heavy chain variable domain
comprising an amino acid sequence selected from the group
consisting of SEQ ID NO: 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28
and 29. In one example, the invention provides a fragment of said
anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0238] In one aspect, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody comprising a light chain variable domain comprising an
amino acid sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%,
96%, 97%, 98% or 99% sequence identity to an amino acid sequence
selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,
11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17. In some embodiments, an amino acid
sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%,
98% or 99% sequence identity contains substitutions, insertions, or
deletions relative to the reference sequence, but an antibody
comprising that amino acid sequence retains the ability to bind to
Factor D. In some embodiments, a total of 1 to 10 amino acids have
been substituted, inserted, or deleted in a sequence selected from
the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,
15, 16 and 17. In some embodiments, the substitutions, insertions
or deletions occur in regions outside the HVRs (i.e., in the FRs).
In some embodiments, a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprises a
light chain variable domain comprising an amino acid sequence
selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,
11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17. In one example, the invention
provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g.
antigen-binding fragments).
[0239] For example, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D
antibody comprising a heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID
NO: 18. For example, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody comprising a light chain variable domain comprising SEQ
ID NO: 6. For example, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody comprising a heavy chain variable domain
comprising SEQ ID NO: 18 and a light chain variable domain
comprising SEQ ID NO: 6. For example, the invention provides a
modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a heavy chain variable
domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 19. For example, the invention
provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a light chain
variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 7. For example, the invention
provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a heavy chain
variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 19 and a light chain variable
domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 7. For example, the invention provides
a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a heavy chain variable
domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 20. For example, the invention
provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a light chain
variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 8. For example, the invention
provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a heavy chain
variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 20 and a light chain variable
domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 8. For example, the invention provides
a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a heavy chain variable
domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 21. For example, the invention
provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a light chain
variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 9. For example, the invention
provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a heavy chain
variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 21 and a light chain variable
domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 9. For example, the invention provides
a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a heavy chain variable
domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 22. For example, the invention
provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a light chain
variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 10. For example, the
invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a
heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 22 and a light
chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 10. For example, the
invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a
heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 23. For example,
the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising
a light chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 11. For
example, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody
comprising a heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 23
and a light chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 11. For
example, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody
comprising a heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 24.
For example, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D
antibody comprising a light chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID
NO: 12. For example, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody comprising a heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ
ID NO: 24 and a light chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO:
12. For example, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D
antibody comprising a heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID
NO: 25. For example, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody comprising a light chain variable domain comprising SEQ
ID NO: 13. For example, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody comprising a heavy chain variable domain
comprising SEQ ID NO: 25 and a light chain variable domain
comprising SEQ ID NO: 13. For example, the invention provides a
modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a heavy chain variable
domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 26. For example, the invention
provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a light chain
variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 14. For example, the
invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a
heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 26 and a light
chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 14. For example, the
invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising a
heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 27. For example,
the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising
a light chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 15. For
example, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody
comprising a heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 27
and a light chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 15. For
example, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody
comprising a heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO: 28.
For example, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D
antibody comprising a light chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID
NO: 16. For example, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody comprising a heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ
ID NO: 28 and a light chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID NO:
16. For example, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D
antibody comprising a heavy chain variable domain comprising SEQ ID
NO: 29. For example, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody comprising a light chain variable domain comprising SEQ
ID NO: 17. For example, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody comprising a heavy chain variable domain
comprising SEQ ID NO: 29 and a light chain variable domain
comprising SEQ ID NO: 17. In one example, the invention provides a
fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding
fragments).
[0240] In one embodiment, the invention provides a polypeptide
comprising the following amino acid sequence:
X.sub.1VQLVQSGPELKKPGASVKVSCKASGYTFTNYGMNWVRQAPGQGLEWMGWINTYTGETT
YADDFKGRFVFSLDTSVSTAYLQISSLKAEDTAVYYCEREGGVX.sub.2X.sub.3WGQGTLVTVSS
(SEQ ID NO: 74), wherein X.sub.1 is Q or E; X.sub.2 is N, A or Q;
and X.sub.3 is N, A or Q. In one embodiment, the invention provides
a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising the following amino
acid sequence:
X.sub.1VQLVQSGPELKKPGASVKVSCKASGYTFTNYGMNWVRQAPGQGLEWMGWINTYTGETT
YADDFKGRFVFSLDTSVSTAYLQISSLKAEDTAVYYCEREGGVX.sub.2X.sub.3WGQGTLVTVSS
(SEQ ID NO: 74), wherein X.sub.1 is Q or E; X.sub.2 is N, A or Q;
and X.sub.3 is N, A or Q. In one example, the invention provides a
fragment of said polypeptide.
[0241] In one embodiment, the invention provides a polypeptide
comprising following amino acid sequence:
DIQVTQSPSSLSASVGDRVTITCITSTDIDDDX.sub.4X.sub.5WYQQKPGKVPKLLISGGX.sub.6TLR-
PGVPSRF SGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQPEDVATYYCLQSDSLPYTFGQGTKX.sub.7EIK (SEQ ID
NO: 73), wherein X.sub.4 is M, L or I; X.sub.5 is N, A or Q;
X.sub.6 is N, S or A; and X.sub.7 is L or V. In one embodiment, the
invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody comprising the
polypeptide comprising the following amino acid sequence:
DIQVTQSPSSLSASVGDRVTITCITSTDIDDDX.sub.4X.sub.5WYQQKPGKVPKLLISGGX.sub.6TLR-
PGVPSRF SGSGSGTDFTLTISSLQPEDVATYYCLQSDSLPYTFGQGTKX.sub.7EIK (SEQ ID
NO: 73), wherein X.sub.4 is M, L or I; X.sub.5 is N, A or Q;
X.sub.6 is N, S or A; and X.sub.7 is L or V. In one example, the
invention provides a fragment of said polypeptide.
[0242] In one embodiment, the invention provides a polypeptide
comprising an amino acid sequence selected from the group
comprising SEQ ID NO: 18, SEQ ID NO: 19, SEQ ID NO: 20, SEQ ID NO:
21, SEQ ID NO: 22, SEQ ID NO: 23, SEQ ID NO: 24, SEQ ID NO: 25, SEQ
ID NO: 26, SEQ ID NO: 27, SEQ ID NO: 28 and SEQ ID NO: 29. In
another embodiment, the invention provides a polypeptide comprising
an amino acid sequence selected from the group comprising SEQ ID
NO: 6, SEQ ID NO: 7, SEQ ID NO: 8, SEQ ID NO: 9, SEQ ID NO: 10, SEQ
ID NO: 11, SEQ ID NO: 12, SEQ ID NO: 13, SEQ ID NO: 14, SEQ ID NO:
15, SEQ ID NO: 16 and SEQ ID NO: 17. In one example, the invention
provides a fragment of said polypeptide.
[0243] In one aspect, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody, wherein the light chain domain comprises the sequence
of SEQ ID NO: 47. In another aspect, the invention provides a
modified anti-Factor D antibody, wherein the heavy chain domain
comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 54. In one aspect, the
invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody, wherein the
light chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 61. In
another aspect, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D
antibody, wherein the heavy chain domain comprises the sequence of
SEQ ID NO: 63. In one example, the invention provides a fragment of
said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0244] In one aspect, the invention provides a polypeptide
comprising the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 47. In another aspect, the
invention provides a polypeptide comprising the sequence of SEQ ID
NO: 54. In one aspect, the invention provides a polypeptide
comprising the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 61. In another aspect, the
invention provides a polypeptide comprising the sequence of SEQ ID
NO: 63. In one example, the invention provides a fragment of said
polypeptide.
[0245] In one aspect, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the variable
light chain domain comprises the amino acid sequence selected from
the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 6, SEQ ID NO: 7, SEQ ID NO: 8,
SEQ ID NO: 9, SEQ ID NO: 10, SEQ ID NO: 11, SEQ ID NO: 12, SEQ ID
NO: 13, SEQ ID NO: 14, SEQ ID NO: 15, SEQ ID NO: 16 and SEQ ID NO:
17. In one example, the invention provides a fragment of said
anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding fragment).
[0246] In one aspect, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the variable
heavy chain domain comprises the sequence selected from the group
consisting of SEQ ID NO: 18, SEQ ID NO: 19, SEQ ID NO: 20, SEQ ID
NO: 21, SEQ ID NO: 22, SEQ ID NO: 23, SEQ ID NO: 24, SEQ ID NO: 25,
SEQ ID NO: 26, SEQ ID NO: 27, SEQ ID NO: 28 and SEQ ID NO: 29. In
one example, the invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor
D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0247] In one aspect, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the light chain
domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 47. In another aspect,
the invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody of
humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the heavy chain domain
comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 54. In one aspect, the
invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody of humanized
anti-Factor D #111, wherein the light chain domain comprises the
sequence of SEQ ID NO: 61. In another aspect, the invention
provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody of humanized anti-Factor
D #111, wherein the heavy chain domain comprises the sequence of
SEQ ID NO: 63. In one example, the invention provides a fragment of
said anti-Factor D antibody (e.g. antigen-binding fragment).
[0248] In one aspect, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the variable
light chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6 and the
variable heavy chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO:
18. In one embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the
variable light chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7
and the variable heavy chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ
ID NO: 19. In another embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the
variable light chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8
and the variable heavy chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ
ID NO: 20. In another embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the
variable light chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9
and the variable heavy chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ
ID NO: 21. In another embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the
variable light chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10
and variable heavy chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID
NO: 22. In another embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the
variable light chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11
and the variable heavy chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ
ID NO: 23. In another embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the
variable light chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 12
and the variable heavy chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ
ID NO: 24. In another embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the
variable light chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 13
and the variable heavy chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ
ID NO: 25. In another embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the
variable light chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 14
and the variable heavy chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ
ID NO: 26. In another embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the
variable light chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 15
and the variable heavy chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ
ID NO: 27. In another embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the
variable light chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 16
and the variable heavy chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ
ID NO: 28. In another embodiment, the invention provides a modified
anti-Factor D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the
variable light chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 17
and the variable heavy chain domain comprises the sequence of SEQ
ID NO: 29. In one example, the invention provides a fragment of
said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0249] In one aspect, the invention provides a modified anti-Factor
D antibody of humanized anti-Factor D #111, wherein the light chain
domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 47 and the heavy chain
domain comprises the sequence of SEQ ID NO: 54. In one aspect, the
invention provides a modified anti-Factor D antibody of humanized
anti-Factor D #111, wherein the light chain domain comprises the
sequence of SEQ ID NO: 61 and the heavy chain domain comprises the
sequence of SEQ ID NO: 63.
[0250] 3. Affinity and Biological Activity of Anti-Factor D
Antibodies
[0251] The invention herein includes antibodies, and variants
thereof or fragments thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragments),
having characteristics identified herein as being desireable in an
anti-Factor D antibody. Antibodies, and variants thereof or
fragments thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragments), having
characteristics identified herein as being desireable in an
anti-Factor D antibody, may be screened for inhibitory biological
activity, for example in vitro or in vivo, or by measuring binding
affinity.
[0252] a. Affinity
[0253] To determine whether an anti-Factor D antibody, and variants
thereof or fragments thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragments), bind
to the same epitope on human Factor D bound by an antibody of
interest (for example, those antibodies which antagonize Factor D
activity), a cross-blocking assay may be performed (Antibodies, A
Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Ed Harlow and
David Lane (1988)). Alternatively, epitope mapping may be performed
to determine whether an anti-Factor D antibody binds an epitope of
interest (Champe et al., J. Biol. Chem., 270: 1388-1394 (1995).
Antibody affinities, for example for human Factor D, may be
determined using standard methods, including those described in
Example 3.
[0254] In one aspect, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, or antibody variants thereof, or fragments thereof
(e.g. antigen-binding fragments), that compete with a murine
anti-Factor D antibody and/or humanized anti-Factor D antibody
clone #111, and/or an antibody comprising variable domain or HVR
sequences of humanized anti-Factor D antibody clone #111.
Anti-Factor D antibodies, or variants thereof, or fragments thereof
(e.g. antigen-binding fragments) that bind to the same epitope as a
murine anti-Factor D antibody and/or humanized anti-Factor D
antibody clone #111, and/or an antibody comprising variable domain
or HVR sequences of humanized anti-Factor D antibody clone #111,
are also provided.
[0255] In one embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the monovalent
affinity of the antibody to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the
antibody as a Fab fragment to Factor D) is lower, for example at
least 1-fold or 2-fold lower than the monovalent affinity of a
chimeric antibody (e.g. affinity of the chimeric antibody as a Fab
fragment to Factor D), comprising, consisting or consisting
essentially of a light chain variable domain of and heavy chain
variable domain from a murine anti-Factor D antibody. In one
example, the invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D
antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0256] In one embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the bivalent
affinity of the antibody to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the
antibody as an IgG to Factor D) is lower, for example at least
1-fold or 2-fold lower than the bivalent affinity of a chimeric
antibody (e.g. affinity of the chimeric antibody as an IgG to
Factor D), comprising, consisting or consisting essentially of a
light chain variable domain and heavy chain variable domain from a
murine anti-Factor D antibody. In one example, the invention
provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g.
antigen-binding fragments).
[0257] In another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor
D antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the monovalent
affinity of the antibody to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the
antibody as a Fab fragment to Factor D) is greater, for example at
least 1-fold or 2-fold greater than the monovalent affinity of a
chimeric antibody (e.g. affinity of the chimeric antibody as a Fab
fragment to Factor D), comprising, consisting or consisting
essentially of a light chain variable domain and heavy chain
variable domain from a murine anti-Factor D antibody. In one
example, the invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D
antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0258] In another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor
D antibody, or antibody variants thereof, wherein the bivalent
affinity of the antibody to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the
antibody as an IgG to Factor D) is greater, for example at least
1-fold or 2-fold greater than the bivalent affinity of a chimeric
antibody (e.g. affinity of the chimeric antibody as an IgG to
Factor D), comprising, consisting or consisting essentially of a
light chain variable domain and heavy chain variable domain from a
murine anti-Factor D antibody. In one example, the invention
provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g.
antigen-binding fragments).
[0259] In another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor
D antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of
the antibody in its monovalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of
the antibody as a Fab fragment to Factor D) is 20 nM
(20.times.10.sup.-9M) or better. In another embodiment, the
invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant
thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in its monovalent
form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as a Fab fragment
to Factor D) is 10 nM (10.times.10.sup.-9M) or better. In another
embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or
antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in
its monovalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as
a Fab fragment to Factor D) is 1.0 nM (1.0.times.10.sup.-9M) or
better. In another embodiment, the invention provides an
anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the
affinity of the antibody in its monovalent form to Factor D (e.g.,
affinity of the antibody as a Fab fragment to Factor D) is 0.5 nM
(0.5.times.10.sup.-9M) or better. In another embodiment, the
invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant
thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in its monovalent
form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as a Fab fragment
to Factor D) is 1.0 pM (1.0.times.10.sup.-12M) or better. In
another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the
antibody in its monovalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the
antibody as a Fab fragment to Factor D) is 0.5 pM
(0.5.times.10.sup.-12M) or better. In one example, the invention
provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g.
antigen-binding fragments).
[0260] In another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor
D antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of
the antibody in its bivalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of
the antibody as an IgG to Factor D) is 10.0 nM
(10.0.times.10.sup.-9M) or better. In another embodiment, the
invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant
thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in its bivalent form
to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as an IgG to Factor D)
is 5.0 nM (5.0.times.10.sup.-9M) or better. In another embodiment,
the invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody
variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in its
bivalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as an IgG
to Factor D) is 1.0 nM (1.0.times.10.sup.-9M) or better. In another
embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or
antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in
its bivalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as an
IgG to Factor D) is 0.5 nM (0.5.times.10.sup.-9M) or better. In
another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the
antibody in its bivalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the
antibody as an IgG to Factor D) is 5.0 pM (5.0.times.10.sup.-12M)
or better. In another embodiment, the invention provides an
anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the
affinity of the antibody in its bivalent form to Factor D (e.g.,
affinity of the antibody as an IgG to Factor D) is 2.0 pM
(2.0.times.10.sup.-12M) or better. In another embodiment, the
invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant
thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in its bivalent form
to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as an IgG to Factor D)
is 1.0 pM (1.0.times.10.sup.-12M) or better. In another embodiment,
the invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody
variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in its
bivalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as an IgG
to Factor D) is 0.5 pM (0.5.times.10.sup.-12M) or better. In one
example, the invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D
antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0261] In another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor
D antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of
the antibody in its monovalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of
the antibody as a Fab fragment to Factor D) is between 0.5 mM
(0.5.times.10.sup.-6M) and 0.5 pM (0.5.times.10.sup.-12M). In
another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the
antibody in its monovalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the
antibody as a Fab fragment to Factor D) is between 15 nM
(15.times.10.sup.-9M) and 0.1 nM (0.1.times.10.sup.-9M). In another
embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or
antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in
its monovalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as
a Fab fragment to Factor D) is between 5.5 nM
(5.5.times.10.sup.-9M) and 1 nM (1.times.10.sup.-9M). In another
embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or
antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in
its monovalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as
a Fab fragment to Factor D) is between 0.5 pM
(0.5.times.10.sup.-12M) and 2 pM (2.times.10.sup.-12M). In one
example, the invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D
antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0262] In another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor
D antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of
the antibody in its bivalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of
the antibody as an IgG to Factor D) is between 0.5 mM
(0.5.times.10.sup.-6M) and 0.5 pM (0.5.times.10.sup.-12M). In
another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody, or antibody variants thereof, wherein the affinity of the
antibody in its bivalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the
antibody as an IgG to Factor D) is between 10 nM
(10.times.10.sup.-9M) and 0.05 nM (0.05.times.10.sup.-9M). In
another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the
antibody in its bivalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the
antibody as an IgG to Factor D) is between 5.5 nM
(5.5.times.10.sup.-9M) and 1 nM (1.times.10.sup.-9 M). In another
embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or
antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in
its bivalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as an
IgG to Factor D) is between 0.5 pM (0.5.times.10.sup.-12M) and 2 pM
(2.times.10.sup.-12M). In one example, the invention provides a
fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding
fragments).
[0263] In another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor
D antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of
the antibody in its monovalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of
the antibody as a Fab fragment to Factor D) is about 1.4 pM
(1.4.times.10.sup.-12M). In another embodiment, the invention
provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant thereof,
wherein the affinity of the antibody in its bivalent form to Factor
D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as a IgG to Factor D) is about
1.1 pM (1.1.times.10.sup.-12M). In another embodiment, the
invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant
thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in its monovalent
form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as a Fab fragment
to Factor D) is about 0.19 nM (0.19.times.10.sup.-9 M). In another
embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or
antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in
its bivalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as a
IgG to Factor D) is about 0.08 nM (0.08.times.10.sup.-9 M). In
another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the
antibody in its monovalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the
antibody as a Fab fragment to Factor D) is about 12.3 nM
(12.3.times.10.sup.-9M). In another embodiment, the invention
provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant thereof,
wherein the affinity of the antibody in its bivalent form to Factor
D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as a IgG to Factor D) is about
9.0 nM (9.0.times.10.sup.-9M). In one example, the invention
provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g.
antigen-binding fragments).
[0264] In another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor
D antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of
the antibody in its monovalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of
the antibody as a Fab fragment to Factor D) is about 1.4 pM
(1.4.times.10.sup.-12M)+/-0.5. In another embodiment, the invention
provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant thereof,
wherein the affinity of the antibody in its bivalent form to Factor
D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as an IgG to Factor D) is about
1.1 pM (1.1.times.10.sup.-12M)+/-0.6. In another embodiment, the
invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant
thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in its monovalent
form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as a Fab fragment
to Factor D) is about 0.19 nM (0.19.times.10.sup.-9M)+/-0.01. In
another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the
antibody in its bivalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the
antibody as a IgG to Factor D) is about 0.08 nM
(0.08.times.10.sup.-9M)+/-0.01. In another embodiment, the
invention provides an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant
thereof, wherein the affinity of the antibody in its monovalent
form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as a Fab fragment
to Factor D) is about 12.3 nM (12.3.times.10.sup.-9M)+/-2. In
another embodiment, the invention provides an anti-Factor D
antibody, or antibody variant thereof, wherein the affinity of the
antibody in its bivalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the
antibody as a IgG to Factor D) is about 9.0 nM
(9.0.times.10.sup.-9M)+/-1. In one example, the invention provides
a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding
fragments).
[0265] In another embodiment, an anti-Factor D antibody, or
antibody variant thereof, may have an affinity in its monovalent
form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as a Fab fragment
to Factor D) of about 1.4 pM (1.4.times.10.sup.-12M)+/-2. In
another embodiment, an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant
thereof, may have an affinity in its bivalent form to Factor D
(e.g., affinity of the antibody as a IgG to Factor D) of about 1.1
pM (1.1.times.10.sup.-12M)+/-2. In another embodiment, an
anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant thereof, may have an
affinity in its monovalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the
antibody as a Fab fragment to Factor D) is about 0.19 nM
(0.19.times.10.sup.-9M)+/-2. In another embodiment, an anti-Factor
D antibody, or antibody variant thereof, may have an affinity in
its bivalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the antibody as a
IgG to Factor D) is about 0.08 nM (0.08.times.10.sup.-9M)+/-2. In
another embodiment, an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant
thereof, may have an affinity in its monovalent form to Factor D
(e.g., affinity of the antibody as a Fab fragment to Factor D) is
about 12.3 nM (12.3.times.10.sup.-9M)+/-2. In another embodiment,
an anti-Factor D antibody, or antibody variant thereof, may have an
affinity in its bivalent form to Factor D (e.g., affinity of the
antibody as a IgG to Factor D) is about 9.0 nM
(9.0.times.10.sup.-9M)+/-2. In one example, the invention provides
a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding
fragments).
[0266] As is well-established in the art, binding affinity of a
ligand to its receptor can be determined using any of a variety of
assays, and expressed in terms of a variety of quantitative values.
Accordingly, in one embodiment, the binding affinity is expressed
as K.sub.D values and reflects intrinsic binding affinity (e.g.,
with minimized avidity effects). Generally and preferably, binding
affinity is measured in vitro, whether in a cell-free or
cell-associated setting. As described in greater detail herein,
fold difference in binding affinity can be quantified in terms of
the ratio of the monovalent binding affinity value of a humanized
antibody (e.g., in Fab form) and the monovalent binding affinity
value of a reference/comparator antibody (e.g., in Fab form) (e.g.,
a murine antibody having donor hypervariable region sequences),
wherein the binding affinity values are determined under similar
assay conditions. Thus, in one embodiment, the fold difference in
binding affinity is determined as the ratio of the K.sub.D values
of the humanized antibody in Fab form and said reference/comparator
Fab antibody. For example, in one embodiment, if an antibody of the
invention (A) has an affinity that is "3-fold lower" than the
affinity of a reference antibody (M), then if the K.sub.D value for
A is 3.times., the K.sub.D value of M would be 1.times., and the
ratio of K.sub.D of A to K.sub.D of M would be 3:1. Conversely, in
one embodiment, if an antibody of the invention (C) has an affinity
that is "3-fold greater" than the affinity of a reference antibody
(R), then if the K.sub.D value for C is 1.times., the K.sub.D value
of R would be 3.times., and the ratio of K.sub.D of C to K.sub.D of
R would be 1:3. Any of a number of assays known in the art,
including those described herein, can be used to obtain binding
affinity measurements, including, for example, Biacore,
radioimmunoassay (RIA) and ELISA.
[0267] Further, K.sub.D values for an antibody of the invention may
vary depending on conditions of the particular assay used. For
example, in one embodiment, binding affinity measurements may be
obtained in an assay wherein the Fab or antibody is immobilized and
binding of the ligand, i.e. Factor D, is measured or alternatively,
the ligand, i.e. Factor D, for the Fab or antibody is immobilized
and binding of the Fab or antibody is measured. In one embodiment,
the binding affinity measurements may be obtained in an assay
wherein the regeneration conditions may comprise (1) 10 mM glycine
or 4M MgCl.sub.2 at pH 1.5, and (2) pH between pH of 1.0 and pH of
7.5, including pH of 1.5, pH of 5.0, pH of 6.0 and pH of 7.2. In
one embodiment, the binding affinity measurements may be obtained
in an assay wherein the binding conditions may comprise (1) PBS or
HEPES-buffered saline and (2) Tween-20, i.e. 0.1% Tween-20. In one
embodiment, the binding affinity measurements may be obtained in an
assay wherein the source of the ligand, i.e Factor D, may be from
commercially available sources. In one embodiment, binding affinity
measurements may be obtained in an assay wherein (1) the Fab or
antibody is immobilized and binding of the ligand, i.e. Factor D is
measured, (2) the regeneration conditions comprise 4M MgCl.sub.2 at
pH 7.2 and (3) the binding conditions comprise HEPES-buffered
saline, pH 7.2 containing 0.1% Tween-20. In one embodiment, binding
affinity measurements may be obtained in an assay wherein (1) the
ligand, i.e. Factor D, is immobilized and binding of the Fab or
antibody is measured, (2) the regeneration conditions comprise 10
mM glycine at pH 1.5 and (3) the binding conditions comprise PBS
buffer.
[0268] b. Biological Activity
[0269] To determine whether an anti-Factor D antibody, or variant
or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment) is capable of
binding to Factor D and exerting a biological effect, for example,
inhibition of alternative pathway hemolysis, hemolytic inhibition
assays using rabbit RBCs may be used, including those described in
Example 2. Such hemolytic inhibition may be determined using
standard assays (Kostavasili et al., J of Immunology, 158(4):
1763-72 (1997); Wiesmann et al., Nature, 444(7116): 159-60 (2006)).
Activation of complement in such assays may be initiated with serum
or plasma. Appropriate concentrations of Factor D in serum or
plasma (Pascual et al., Kidney International, 34: 529-536 (1998);
Complement Facts Book, Bernard J. Morley and Mark J. Walport,
editors, Academic Press (2000); Barnum et al., J. Immunol. Methods,
67: 303-309 (1984)) can be routinely determined according to
methods known in the art, including those that have been described
in references such as Pascual et al., Kidney International, 34:
529-536 (1998) and Barnum et al., J. Immunol. Methods, 67: 303-309
(1984) and Example 4. The present invention relates generally to
antibodies capable of inhibiting biological activities associated
with Factor D. For example, at a concentration of 18 .mu.g/ml
(equivalent to about 1.5 times the molar concentration of human
factor D in the blood; molar ratio of anti-Factor D antibody to
Factor D of about 1.5:1), significant inhibition of the alternative
complement activity by the antibody can be observed (see, e.g.,
U.S. Pat. No. 6,956,107)
[0270] In one embodiment, the invention includes anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values less than 30
nM. In one embodiment, the invention includes anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values less than 15
nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits,
inhibits alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values less
than 10 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values less than 5 nM.
In one example, the invention provides a fragment of said
anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0271] In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values between 30 nM
and 2 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values between 25 nM
and 7 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values between 20 nM
and 12 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values between 30 nM
and 15 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values between 12 nM
and 8 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values between 7 nM
and 2 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values between 6 nM
and 3 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values between 8 nM
and 5 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values between 5 nM
and 2 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values between 10 nM
and 5 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC5.sub.50 values between 8 nM
and 2 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values between 7 nM
and 3 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values between 6 nM
and 4 nM. In another embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor
D antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with an IC.sub.50 value of about 4.7
nM.+-.0.6 nM. In another embodiment, the invention provides
anti-Factor D antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies
inhibits alternative pathway hemolysis with an IC.sub.50 value of
about 6.4 nM.+-.0.6 nM. In another embodiment, the invention
provides anti-Factor D antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such
antibodies inhibits alternative pathway hemolysis with an IC.sub.50
value of about 3.5 nM.+-.0.5 nM. In another embodiment, the
invention provides anti-Factor D antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment
of such antibodies inhibits alternative pathway hemolysis with an
IC.sub.50 value of about 4.4 nM.+-.1.5 nM. In another embodiment,
the invention provides anti-Factor D antibodies, wherein a Fab
fragment of such antibodies inhibits alternative pathway hemolysis
with an IC.sub.50 value of about 10.2 nM.+-.0.8 nM. In another
embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D antibodies,
wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits alternative
pathway hemolysis with an IC.sub.50 value of about 23.9 nM.+-.5.0
nM. In one example, the invention provides a fragment of said
anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0272] In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.90 values less than 80
nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.90 values less than 50
nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.90 values less than 40
nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.90 values less than 20
nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.50 values less than 15
nM. In one example, the invention provides a fragment of said
anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0273] In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.90 values between 80 nM
and 10 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.90 values between 75 nM
and 15 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.90 values between 70 nM
and 20 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.90 values between 65 nM
and 25 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.90 values between 60 nM
and 30 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.90 values between 55 nM
and 35 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.90 values between 50 nM
and 40 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.90 values between 80 nM
and 70 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.90 values between 55 nM
and 25 nM. In one embodiment, the invention provides anti-Factor D
antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits
alternative pathway hemolysis with IC.sub.90 values between 16 nM
and 12 nM. In another embodiment, the invention provides
anti-Factor D antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies
inhibits alternative pathway hemolysis with an IC.sub.90 value of
about 14.0 nM.+-.1.0 nM. In another embodiment, the invention
provides anti-Factor D antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such
antibodies inhibits alternative pathway hemolysis with an IC.sub.90
value of about 38.0 nM.+-.11.0 nM. In another embodiment, the
invention provides anti-Factor D antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment
of such antibodies inhibits alternative pathway hemolysis with an
IC.sub.90 value of about 72.6 nM.+-.4.8 nM. In one example, the
invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies
(e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0274] In one embodiment, the invention concerns an anti-Factor D
antibody, or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment)
wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits alternative
pathway hemolysis in an antibody to Factor D molar ratio of about
0.05:1 (0.05) to about 10:1 (10), or about 0.09:1 (0.09) to about
8:1 (8), or about 0.1:1 (0.1) to about 6:1 (6), or about 0.15:1
(0.15) to about 5:1 (5), or about 0.19:1 (0.19) to about 4:1 (4),
or about 0.2:1 (0.2) to about 3:1 (3), or about 0.3:1 (0.3) to
about 2:1 (2), or about 0.4:1 (0.4) to about 1:1 (1), or about
0.5:1 (0.5) to about 1:2 (0.5), or about 0.6:1 (0.6) to about 1:3
(0.33), or about 0.7:1 (0.7) to about 1:4 (0.25), or about 0.8:1
(0.8) to about 1:5 (0.2) or about 0.9:1 (0.9) to about 1:6 (0.17).
In one example, the invention provides a fragment of said
anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0275] In one embodiment, the present invention includes fragments
of humanized anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding
fragments). The antibody fragments of the present invention may,
for example, be Fab, Fab', F(ab').sub.2, scFv, (scFv).sub.2, dAb,
complementarity determining region (CDR) fragments, linear
antibodies, single-chain antibody molecules, minibodies, diabodies,
or multispecific antibodies formed from antibody fragments. In a
further embodiment, the invention provides a humanized anti-Factor
D antibody fragment (e.g. antigen-binding fragment) that is capable
of penetrating substantially all of the retina. In an even further
embodiment, the invention provides a humanized anti-Factor D
antibody fragment (e.g. antigen-binding fragment) that is capable
of penetrating throughout the entire thickness of the retina. In
one example, the invention provides a fragment of said anti-Factor
D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding fragments).
[0276] In one embodiment, the present invention includes humanized
anti-Factor D antibodies, wherein a Fab fragment of such antibodies
have a half life of at least 3, 5, 7, 10 or 12 days after
administration into a mammalian eye (e.g. human) via a single
intravitreal injection. In another embodiment, the present
invention includes humanized anti-Factor D antibodies, wherein a
Fab fragment of such antibodies inhibits alternative pathway (AP)
complement activation for at least 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75,
80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 105, 110 or 115 days after administration into
a mammalian eye (e.g. human) via a single intravitreal injection.
In another embodiment, the present invention includes humanized
anti-Factor D antibodies, wherein the concentration of a Fab
fragment of such antibodies that inhibits alternative pathway (AP)
complement activation is maintained in retinal tissue for at least
40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80 or 85 days after administration
into a mammalian eye (e.g. human) via a single intravitreal
injection. In another embodiment, the present invention includes
humanized anti-Factor D antibodies, wherein the concentration of a
Fab fragment of such antibodies that inhibits alternative pathway
(AP) complement activation is maintained in the vitreous humor for
at least 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 105, 110 or 115 days after
administration into a mammalian eye (e.g. human) via a single
intravitreal injection. In one example, the invention provides a
fragment of said anti-Factor D antibodies (e.g. antigen-binding
fragments).
Generation of Antibodies
Selection and Transformation of Host Cells
[0277] Host cells are transfected or transformed with expression or
cloning vectors described herein for anti-Factor D antibody
production and cultured in conventional nutrient media modified as
appropriate for inducing promoters, selecting transformants, or
amplifying the genes encoding the desired sequences. The culture
conditions, such as media, temperature, pH and the like, can be
selected by the skilled artisan without undue experimentation. In
general, principles, protocols, and practical techniques for
maximizing the productivity of cell cultures can be found in
Mammalian Cell Biotechnology: a Practical Approach, M. Butler, ed.
(IRL Press, 1991) and Sambrook et al. supra.
[0278] Methods of eukaryotic cell transfection and prokaryotic cell
transformation, which means introduction of DNA into the host so
that the DNA is replicable, either as an extrachromosomal or by
chromosomal integrant, are known to the ordinarily skilled artisan,
for example, CaCl.sub.2, CaPO.sub.4, liposome-mediated,
polyethylene-gycol/DMSO and electroporation. Depending on the host
cell used, transformation is performed using standard techniques
appropriate to such cells. The calcium treatment employing calcium
chloride, as described in Sambrook et al., supra, or
electroporation is generally used for prokaryotes. Infection with
Agrobacterium tumefaciens is used for transformation of certain
plant cells, as described by Shaw et al., Gene, 23:315 (1983) and
WO 89/05859 published 29 Jun. 1989. For mammalian cells without
such cell walls, the calcium phosphate precipitation method of
Graham and van der Eb, Virology, 52:456-457 (1978) can be employed.
General aspects of mammalian cell host system transfections have
been described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,399,216. Transformations into
yeast are typically carried out according to the method of Van
Solingen et al., J. Bact., 130:946 (1977) and Hsiao et al., Proc.
Natl. Acad. Sci. (USA), 76:3829 (1979). However, other methods for
introducing DNA into cells, such as by nuclear microinjection,
electroporation, bacterial protoplast fusion with intact cells, or
polycations, e.g., polybrene, polyornithine, may also be used. For
various techniques for transforming mammalian cells, see Keown et
al., Methods in Enzymology, 185:527-537 (1990) and Mansour et al.,
Nature, 336:348-352 (1988).
[0279] Suitable host cells for cloning or expressing the DNA in the
vectors herein are for cloning or expressing the DNA in the vectors
herein are prokaryotic, yeast, or higher eukaryotic cells. Suitable
prokaryotes for this purpose include both Gram-negative and
Gram-positive organisms, for example, Enterobacteria such as
Escherichia, e.g. E. coli, Enterobacter, Erwinia, Klebsiella,
Proteus, Salmonella, e.g., Salmonella typhimurium, Serratia, e.g.,
Serratia marcescans, and Shigella, as well as Bacilli, such as B.
subtilis and B. licheniformis (e.g., B. licheniformis 41P disclosed
in DD 266,710 published 12 Apr. 1989), Pseudomonas, such as P.
aeruginosa, Rhizobia, Vitreoscilla, Paracoccus, and Streptomyces.
One preferred E. coli cloning host is E. coli 294 (ATCC 31,446),
although other strains such as E. coli B, E. coli X1776 (ATCC
31,537), E. coli W3110 (ATCC 27,325) and K5 772 (ATCC 53,635) are
suitable. These examples are illustrative rather than limiting.
Strain W3110 is one particularly preferred host or parent host
because it is a common host strain for recombinant DNA product
fermentations. Preferably, the host cell secretes minimal amounts
of proteolytic enzymes. For example, strain W3110 (Bachmann,
Cellular and Molecular Biology, vol. 2 (Washington, D.C.: American
Society for Microbiology, 1987), pp. 1190-1219; ATCC Deposit No.
27,325) may be modified to effect a genetic mutation in the genes
encoding proteins endogenous to the host, with examples of such
hosts including E. coli W3110 strain 1A2, which has the complete
genotype tonA; E. coli W3110 strain 9E4, which has the complete
genotype tonA ptr3; E. coli W3110 strain 27C7 (ATCC 55,244), which
has the complete genotype tonA ptr3 phoA E15 (argF-lac)169 degP
ompT kan.sup.r; E. coli W3110 strain 37D6, which has the complete
genotype tonA ptr3 phoA E15 (argF-lac)169 degP ompT rbs7 ilvG
kan.sup.r; E. coli W3110 strain 4064, which is strain 37D6 with a
non-kanamycin resistant degP deletion mutation; E. coli W3110
strain 33D3 having genotype W3110 .DELTA.fhuA (.DELTA.tonA) ptr3
lac lq lacL8 .DELTA.ompT.DELTA.(nmpc-fepE) degP41 kan.sup.R (U.S.
Pat. No. 5,639,635) and an E. coli strain having mutant periplasmic
protease disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,946,783 issued 7 Aug. 1990.
Other strains and derivatives thereof, such as E. coli 294 (ATCC
31,446), E. coli B, E. coli.sub..lamda., 1776 (ATCC 31,537) and E.
coli RV308(ATCC 31,608) are also suitable. These examples are
illustrative rather than limiting. Methods for constructing
derivatives of any of the above-mentioned bacteria having defined
genotypes are known in the art and described in, for example, Bass
et al., Proteins, 8:309-314 (1990). It is generally necessary to
select the appropriate bacteria taking into consideration
replicability of the replicon in the cells of a bacterium. For
example, E. coli, Serratia, or Salmonella species can be suitably
used as the host when well known plasmids such as pBR322, pBR325,
pACYC177, or pKN410 are used to supply the replicon. Typically the
host cell should secrete minimal amounts of proteolytic enzymes,
and additional protease inhibitors may desirably be incorporated in
the cell culture. Alternatively, in vitro methods of cloning, e.g.,
PCR or other nucleic acid polymerase reactions, are suitable.
[0280] Full length antibody, antibody fragments (e.g.
antigen-binding fragments), and antibody fusion proteins can be
produced in bacteria, in particular when glycosylation and Fc
effector function are not needed, such as when the therapeutic
antibody is conjugated to a cytotoxic agent (e.g., a toxin) and the
immunoconjugate by itself shows effectiveness in tumor cell
destruction. Full length antibodies have greater half life in
circulation. Production in E. coli is faster and more cost
efficient. For expression of antibody fragments and polypeptides in
bacteria, see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,648,237 (Carter et. al.), U.S.
Pat. No. 5,789,199 (Joly et al.), and U.S. Pat. No. 5,840,523
(Simmons et al.) which describes translation initiation region
(TIR) and signal sequences for optimizing expression and secretion,
these patents incorporated herein by reference. After expression,
the antibody is isolated from the E. coli cell paste in a soluble
fraction and can be purified through, e.g., a protein A or G column
depending on the isotype. Final purification can be carried out
similar to the process for purifying antibody expressed e.g., in
CHO cells.
[0281] In addition to prokaryotes, eukaryotic microbes such as
filamentous fungi or yeast are suitable cloning or expression hosts
for antibody-encoding vectors. Saccharomyces cerevisiae is the most
commonly used among lower eukaryotic host microorganisms. However,
a number of other genera, species, and strains are commonly
available and useful herein, such as Schizosaccharomyces pombe;
Kluyveromyces; Candida; Trichoderma; Neurospora crassa; and
filamentous fungi such as e.g., Neurospora, Penicillium,
Tolypocladium, and Aspergillus hosts, such as A. nidulans and A.
niger. Methylotropic yeasts are suitable herein and include, but
are not limited to, yeast capable of growth on methanol selected
from the genera consisting of Hansenula, Candida, Kloeckera,
Pichia, Saccharomyces, Torulopsis, and Rhodotorula. A list of
specific species that are exemplary of this class of yeasts may be
found in C. Anthony, The Biochemistry of Methylotrophs, 269
(1982).
[0282] Suitable host cells for the expression of glycosylated
antibodies are derived from multicellular organisms. In principal,
any higher eukaryotic cell culture is workable, whether from
vertebrate or invertebrate culture. Examples of invertebrate cells
include plant and insect cells, Luckow et al., Bio/Technology 6,
47-55 (1988); Miller et al., Genetic Engineering, Setlow et al.
eds. Vol. 8, pp. 277-279 (Plenam publishing 1986); Mseda et al.,
Nature 315, 592-594 (1985). Numerous baculoviral strains and
variants and corresponding permissive insect host cells from hosts
such as Spodoptera frugiperda (caterpillar), Aedes (mosquito),
Drosophila melanogaster (fruitfly), and Bombyx mori have been
identified. A variety of viral strains for transfection are
publicly available, e.g., the L-1 variant of Autographa californica
NPV and the Bm-5 strain of Bombyx mori NPV, and such viruses may be
used as the virus herein according to the present invention,
particularly for transfection of Spodoptera frugiperda cells.
Moreover, plant cells cultures of cotton, corn, potato, soybean,
petunia, tomato, and tobacco and also be utilized as hosts.
[0283] Vertebrate cells, and propagation of vertebrate cells, in
culture (tissue culture) has become a routine procedure. See Tissue
Culture, Academic Press, Kruse and Patterson, eds. (1973). Examples
of useful mammalian host cell lines are monkey kidney; human
embryonic kidney line; baby hamster kidney cells; Chinese hamster
ovary cells/-DHFR (CHO, Urlaub et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA
77: 4216 (1980)); mouse sertoli cells; human cervical carcinoma
cells (HELA); canine kidney cells; human lung cells; human liver
cells; mouse mammary tumor; and NSO cells.
[0284] For recombinant production of an antibody of the invention,
or antibody-fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), the
nucleic acid (e.g., cDNA or genomic DNA) encoding it is isolated
and inserted into a replicable vector for further cloning
(amplification of the DNA) or for expression. DNA encoding the
antibody, or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment) is
readily isolated and sequenced using conventional procedures (e.g.,
by using oligonucleotide probes that are capable of binding
specifically to genes encoding the heavy and light chains of the
antibody). Many vectors are available. The choice of vector depends
in part on the host cell to be used. Generally, preferred host
cells are of either prokaryotic or eukaryotic (generally mammalian)
origin.
[0285] The vector may, for example, be in the form of a plasmid,
cosmid, viral particle, or phage. The appropriate nucleic acid
sequence may be inserted into the vector by a variety of
procedures. In general, DNA is inserted into an appropriate
restriction endonuclease site(s) using techniques known in the art.
Vector components generally include, but are not limited to, one or
more of a signal sequence, an origin of replication, one or more
marker genes, an enhancer element, a promoter, and a transcription
termination sequence. Construction of suitable vectors containing
one or more of these components employs standard ligation
techniques which are known to the skilled artisan.
[0286] The Factor D may be produced recombinantly not only
directly, but also as a fusion polypeptide with a heterologous
polypeptide, which may be a signal sequence or other polypeptide
having a specific cleavage site at the N-terminus of the mature
protein or polypeptide. In general, the signal sequence may be a
component of the vector, or it may be a part of the anti-Factor D
antibody-encoding DNA that is inserted into the vector. The signal
sequence may be a prokaryotic signal sequence selected, for
example, from the group of the alkaline phosphatase, penicillinase,
Ipp, or heat-stable enterotoxin II leaders. For yeast secretion the
signal sequence may be, e.g., the yeast invertase leader, alpha
factor leader (including Saccharomyces and Kluyveromyces
.alpha.-factor leaders, the latter described in U.S. Pat. No.
5,010,182), or acid phosphatase leader, the C. albicans
glucoamylase leader (EP 362,179 published 4 Apr. 1990), or the
signal described in WO 90/13646 published 15 Nov. 1990. In
mammalian cell expression, mammalian signal sequences may be used
to direct secretion of the protein, such as signal sequences from
secreted polypeptides of the same or related species, as well as
viral secretory leaders.
[0287] Host cells are transformed with the above-described vectors
for antibody production and cultured in conventional nutrient media
modified as appropriate for inducing promoters, selecting
transformants, or amplifying the genes encoding the desired
sequences.
[0288] The host cells used to produce the antibody, or antibody
variant or fragment (e.g. antigen-binding fragment) thereof, of
this invention may be cultured in a variety of media.
[0289] a. Prokaryotic Host Cells
[0290] Prokaryotic cells used to produce the polypeptides of the
invention are grown in media known in the art and suitable for
culture of the selected host cells. Examples of suitable media
include luria broth (LB) plus necessary nutrient supplements. In
some embodiments, the media also contains a selection agent, chosen
based on the construction of the expression vector, to selectively
permit growth of prokaryotic cells containing the expression
vector. For example, ampicillin is added to media for growth of
cells expressing ampicillin resistant gene.
[0291] Any necessary supplements besides carbon, nitrogen, and
inorganic phosphate sources may also be included at appropriate
concentrations introduced alone or as a mixture with another
supplement or medium such as a complex nitrogen source. Optionally
the culture medium may contain one or more reducing agents selected
from the group consisting of glutathione, cysteine, cystamine,
thioglycollate, dithioerythritol and dithiothreitol.
[0292] The prokaryotic host cells are cultured at suitable
temperatures. For E. coli growth, for example, the preferred
temperature ranges from about 20.degree. C. to about 39.degree. C.,
more preferably from about 25.degree. C. to about 37.degree. C.,
even more preferably at about 30.degree. C. The pH of the medium
may be any pH ranging from about 5 to about 9, depending mainly on
the host organism. For E. coli, the pH is preferably from about 6.8
to about 7.4, and more preferably about 7.0.
[0293] If an inducible promoter is used in the expression vector of
the invention, protein expression is induced under conditions
suitable for the activation of the promoter. In one aspect of the
invention, PhoA promoters are used for controlling transcription of
the polypeptides. Accordingly, the transformed host cells are
cultured in a phosphate-limiting medium for induction. Preferably,
the phosphate-limiting medium is the C.R.A.P medium (see, e.g.,
Simmons et al., J. Immunol. Methods (2002), 263:133-147). A variety
of other inducers may be used, according to the vector construct
employed, as is known in the art.
[0294] In one embodiment, the expressed polypeptides of the present
invention are secreted into and recovered from the periplasm of the
host cells. Protein recovery typically involves disrupting the
microorganism, generally by such means as osmotic shock, sonication
or lysis. Once cells are disrupted, cell debris or whole cells may
be removed by centrifugation or filtration. The proteins may be
further purified, for example, by affinity resin chromatography.
Alternatively, proteins can be transported into the culture media
and isolated therein. Cells may be removed from the culture and the
culture supernatant being filtered and concentrated for further
purification of the proteins produced. The expressed polypeptides
can be further isolated and identified using commonly known methods
such as polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and Western blot
assay.
[0295] In one aspect of the invention, antibody production is
conducted in large quantity by a fermentation process. Various
large-scale fed-batch fermentation procedures are available for
production of recombinant proteins. Large-scale fermentations have
at least 1000 liters of capacity, preferably about 1,000 to 100,000
liters of capacity. These fermentors use agitator impellers to
distribute oxygen and nutrients, especially glucose (the preferred
carbon/energy source). Small scale fermentation refers generally to
fermentation in a fermentor that is no more than approximately 100
liters in volumetric capacity, and can range from about 1 liter to
about 100 liters.
[0296] In a fermentation process, induction of protein expression
is typically initiated after the cells have been grown under
suitable conditions to a desired density, e.g., an OD.sub.550 of
about 180-220, at which stage the cells are in the early stationary
phase. A variety of inducers may be used, according to the vector
construct employed, as is known in the art and described above.
Cells may be grown for shorter periods prior to induction. Cells
are usually induced for about 12-50 hours, although longer or
shorter induction time may be used.
[0297] To improve the production yield and quality of the
polypeptides of the invention, various fermentation conditions can
be modified. For example, to improve the proper assembly and
folding of the secreted antibody polypeptides, additional vectors
overexpressing chaperone proteins, such as Dsb proteins (DsbA,
DsbB, DsbC, DsbD and or DsbG) or FkpA (a peptidylprolyl
cis,trans-isomerase with chaperone activity) can be used to
co-transform the host prokaryotic cells. The chaperone proteins
have been demonstrated to facilitate the proper folding and
solubility of heterologous proteins produced in bacterial host
cells. Chen et al. (1999) J Bio Chem 274:19601-19605; Georgiou et
al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,083,715; Georgiou et al., U.S. Pat. No.
6,027,888; Bothmann and Pluckthun (2000) J. Biol. Chem.
275:17100-17105; Ramm and Pluckthun (2000) J. Biol. Chem.
275:17106-17113; Arie et al. (2001) Mol. Microbiol. 39:199-210.
[0298] To minimize proteolysis of expressed heterologous proteins
(especially those that are proteolytically sensitive), certain host
strains deficient for proteolytic enzymes can be used for the
present invention. For example, host cell strains may be modified
to effect genetic mutation(s) in the genes encoding known bacterial
proteases such as Protease III, OmpT, DegP, Tsp, Protease I,
Protease Mi, Protease V, Protease VI and combinations thereof. Some
E. coli protease-deficient strains are available and described in,
for example, Joly et al. (1998), supra; Georgiou et al., U.S. Pat.
No. 5,264,365; Georgiou et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,508,192; Hara et
al., Microbial Drug Resistance, 2:63-72 (1996).
[0299] In one embodiment, E. coli strains deficient for proteolytic
enzymes and transformed with plasmids overexpressing one or more
chaperone proteins are used as host cells in the expression system
of the invention.
[0300] b. Eukaryotic Host Cells
[0301] Commercially available media such as Ham's F10 (Sigma),
Minimal Essential Medium (MEM, Sigma), RPMI-1640 (Sigma), and
Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium (DMEM, Sigma) are suitable for
culturing host cells. In addition, any of the media described in
Ham et al., Meth. Enzymol. 58: 44 (1979), Barnes et al., Anal.
Biochem. 102: 255 (1980), U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,767,704; 4,657,866;
4,560,655; 5,122,469; 5,712,163; or 6,048,728 may be used as
culture media for the host cells. Any of these media may be
supplemented as necessary with hormones and/or other growth factors
(such as insulin, transferrin, or epidermal growth factor), salts
(such as X-chlorides, where X is sodium, calcium, magnesium; and
phosphates), buffers (such as HEPES), nucleotides (such as
adenosine and thymidine), antibiotics (such as GENTAMYCIN.TM.
drug), trace elements (defined as inorganic compounds usually
present at final concentrations in the micromolar range), and
glucose or an equivalent energy source. Any other necessary
supplements may also be included at appropriate concentrations that
would be known to those skilled in the art. The culture conditions,
such as temperature, pH, and the like, are those previously used
with the host cell selected for expression, and will be apparent to
the ordinarily skilled artisan.
Antibody Purification
[0302] Forms of anti-Factor D antibodies, or fragments thereof
(e.g. antigen-binding fragments) may be recovered from culture
medium or from host cell lysates. If membrane-bound, it can be
released from the membrane using a suitable detergent solution
(e.g. Triton-X 100) or by enzymatic cleavage. Cells employed in
expression of anti-Factor D antibody can be disrupted by various
physical or chemical means, such as freeze-thaw cycling,
sonication, mechanical disruption, or cell lysing agents.
[0303] It may be desired to purify anti-Factor D antibody from
recombinant cell proteins or polypeptides. The following procedures
are exemplary of suitable purification procedures: by fractionation
on an ion-exchange column; ethanol precipitation; reverse phase
HPLC; chromatography on silica or on a cation-exchange resin such
as DEAE; chromatofocusing; SDS-PAGE; ammonium sulfate
precipitation; gel filtration using, for example, Sephadex G-75;
protein A Sepharose columns to remove contaminants such as IgG; and
metal chelating columns to bind epitope-tagged forms of the
anti-Factor D antibody. Various methods of protein purification may
be employed and such methods are known in the art and described for
example in Deutscher, Methods in Enzymology, 182 (1990); Scopes,
Protein Purification: Principles and Practice, Springer-Verlag, New
York (1982). The purification step(s) selected will depend, for
example, on the nature of the production process used and the
particular anti-Factor D antibody produced.
[0304] When using recombinant techniques, the antibody, or antibody
variant or fragment (e.g. antigen-binding fragment) thereof, can be
produced intracellularly, in the periplasmic space, or directly
secreted into the medium. If the antibody, or antibody variant or
fragment (e.g. antigen-binding fragment) thereof, is produced
intracellularly, as a first step, the particulate debris, either
host cells or lysed fragments, may be removed, for example, by
centrifugation or ultrafiltration. Carter et al., Bio/Technology
10: 163-167 (1992) describe a procedure for isolating antibodies
which are secreted to the periplasmic space of E. coli. Briefly,
cell paste is thawed in the presence of sodium acetate (pH 3.5),
EDTA, and phenylmethylsulfonylfluoride (PMSF) over about 30
minutes. Cell debris can be removed by centrifugation. Where the
antibody, or antibody variant or fragment (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment) thereof, is secreted into the medium, supernatants from
such expression systems are generally first concentrated using a
commercially available protein concentration filter, for example,
an Amicon or Millipore Pellicon ultrafiltration unit. A protease
inhibitor such as PMSF may be included in any of the foregoing
steps to inhibit proteolysis and antibiotics may be included to
prevent the growth of adventitious contaminants.
[0305] The antibody composition prepared from the cells can be
purified using, for example, hydroxylapatite chromatography, gel
elecrophoresis, dialysis, and affinity chromatography, with
affinity chromatography being one purification technique. The
suitability of protein A as an affinity ligand depends on the
species and isotype of any immunoglobulin Fc domain that is present
in the antibody, or antibody variant or fragment (e.g.
antigen-binding fragment) thereof. Protein A can be used to purify
antibodies that are based on human IgG1, IgG2 or IgG4 heavy chains
(Lindmark et al., J. Immunol Meth. 62: 1-13 (1983)). Protein G is
recommended for all mouse isotypes and for human IgG3 (Guss et al.,
EMBO J. 5: 1567-1575 (1986)). The matrix to which the affinity
ligand is attached is most often agarose, but other matrices are
available. Mechanically stable matrices such as controlled pore
glass or poly(styrenedivinyl)benzene allow for faster flow rates
and shorter processing times than can be achieved with agarose.
Where the antibody, or antibody variant or fragment (e.g.
antigen-binding fragment) thereof, comprises a CH3 domain, the
Bakerbond ABX.TM. resin (J. T. Baker, Phillipsburg, N.J.) is useful
for purification. Other techniques for protein purification such as
fractionation on an ion-exchange column, ethanol precipitation,
Reverse Phase HPLC, chromatography on silica, chromatography on
heparin SEPHAROSE.TM. chromatography on an anion or cation exchange
resin (such as a polyaspartic acid column), chromatofocusing,
SDS-PAGE, and ammonium sulfate precipitation are also available
depending on the antibody, or antibody variant or fragment (e.g.
antigen-binding fragment) thereof, to be recovered.
[0306] Following any preliminary purification step(s), the mixture
comprising the antibody, or antibody variant or fragment (e.g.
antigen-binding fragment) thereof, of interest and contaminants may
be subjected to low pH hydrophobic interaction chromatography using
an elution buffer at a pH between about 2.5-4.5, preferably
performed at low salt concentrations (e.g., from about 0-0.25M
salt).
Pharmaceutical Formulations
[0307] Therapeutic formulations of the polypeptide or antibody, or
antibody fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), or
antibody variant thereof, may be prepared for storage as
lyophilized formulations or aqueous solutions by mixing the
polypeptide having the desired degree of purity with optional
"pharmaceutically-acceptable" carriers, excipients or stabilizers
typically employed in the art (all of which are termed
"excipients"). For example, buffering agents, stabilizing agents,
preservatives, isotonifiers, non-ionic detergents, antioxidants and
other miscellaneous additives. (See Remington's Pharmaceutical
Sciences, 16th edition, A. Osol, Ed. (1980)). Such additives must
be nontoxic to the recipients at the dosages and concentrations
employed.
[0308] Buffering agents help to maintain the pH in the range which
approximates physiological conditions. They are preferably present
at concentration ranging from about 2 mM to about 50 mM. Suitable
buffering agents for use with the present invention include both
organic and inorganic acids and salts thereof such as citrate
buffers (e.g., monosodium citrate-disodium citrate mixture, citric
acid-trisodium citrate mixture, citric acid-monosodium citrate
mixture, etc.), succinate buffers (e.g., succinic acid-monosodium
succinate mixture, succinic acid-sodium hydroxide mixture, succinic
acid-disodium succinate mixture, etc.), tartrate buffers (e.g.,
tartaric acid-sodium tartrate mixture, tartaric acid-potassium
tartrate mixture, tartaric acid-sodium hydroxide mixture, etc.),
fumarate buffers (e.g., fumaric acid-monosodium fumarate mixture,
etc.), fumarate buffers (e.g., fumaric acid-monosodium fumarate
mixture, fumaric acid-disodium fumarate mixture, monosodium
fumarate-disodium fumarate mixture, etc.), gluconate buffers (e.g.,
gluconic acid-sodium glyconate mixture, gluconic acid-sodium
hydroxide mixture, gluconic acid-potassium glyuconate mixture,
etc.), oxalate buffer (e.g., oxalic acid-sodium oxalate mixture,
oxalic acid-sodium hydroxide mixture, oxalic acid-potassium oxalate
mixture, etc.), lactate buffers (e.g., lactic acid-sodium lactate
mixture, lactic acid-sodium hydroxide mixture, lactic
acid-potassium lactate mixture, etc.) and acetate buffers (e.g.,
acetic acid-sodium acetate mixture, acetic acid-sodium hydroxide
mixture, etc.). Additionally, there may be mentioned phosphate
buffers, histidine buffers and trimethylamine salts such as
Tris.
[0309] Preservatives may be added to retard microbial growth, and
may be added in amounts ranging from 0.2%-1% (w/v). Suitable
preservatives for use with the present invention include phenol,
benzyl alcohol, meta-cresol, methyl paraben, propyl paraben,
octadecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, benzalconium halides
(e.g., chloride, bromide, iodide), hexamethonium chloride, alkyl
parabens such as methyl or propyl paraben, catechol, resorcinol,
cyclohexanol, and 3-pentanol.
[0310] Isotonicifiers sometimes known as "stabilizers" may be added
to ensure isotonicity of liquid compositions of the present
invention and include polhydric sugar alcohols, preferably
trihydric or higher sugar alcohols, such as glycerin, erythritol,
arabitol, xylitol, sorbitol and mannitol.
[0311] Stabilizers refer to a broad category of excipients which
can range in function from a bulking agent to an additive which
solubilizes the therapeutic agent or helps to prevent denaturation
or adherence to the container wall. Typical stabilizers can be
polyhydric sugar alcohols (enumerated above); amino acids such as
arginine, lysine, glycine, glutamine, asparagine, histidine,
alanine, ornithine, L-leucine, 2-phenylalanine, glutamic acid,
threonine, etc., organic sugars or sugar alcohols, such as lactose,
trehalose, stachyose, mannitol, sorbitol, xylitol, ribitol,
myoinisitol, galactitol, glycerol and the like, including cyclitols
such as inositol; polyethylene glycol; amino acid polymers; sulfur
containing reducing agents, such as urea, glutathione, thioctic
acid, sodium thioglycolate, thioglycerol, .alpha.-monothioglycerol
and sodium thio sulfate; low molecular weight polypeptides (i.e.
<10 residues); proteins such as human serum albumin, bovine
serum albumin, gelatin or immunoglobulins; hydrophylic polymers,
such as polyvinylpyrrolidone monosaccharides, such as xylose,
mannose, fructose, glucose; disaccharides such as lactose, maltose,
sucrose and trisaccacharides such as raffinose; polysaccharides
such as dextran. Stabilizers may be present in the range from 0.1
to 10,000 weights per part of weight active protein.
[0312] Non-ionic surfactants or detergents (also known as "wetting
agents") may be added to help solubilize the therapeutic agent as
well as to protect the therapeutic protein against
agitation-induced aggregation, which also permits the formulation
to be exposed to shear surface stressed without causing
denaturation of the protein. Suitable non-ionic surfactants include
polysorbates (20, 80, etc.), polyoxamers (184, 188 etc.),
Pluronic.RTM. polyols, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monoethers
(Tween.RTM.-20, Tween.RTM.-80, etc.). Non-ionic surfactants may be
present in a range of about 0.05 mg/ml to about 1.0 mg/ml,
preferably about 0.07 mg/mI to about 0.2 mg/ml.
[0313] Additional miscellaneous excipients include bulking agents,
(e.g. starch), chelating agents (e.g. EDTA), antioxidants (e.g.,
ascorbic acid, methionine, vitamin E), and cosolvents. The
formulation herein may also contain more than one active compound
as necessary for the particular indication being treated,
preferably those with complementary activities that do not
adversely affect each other. For example, it may be desireable to
further provide an immunosuppressive agent. Such molecules are
suitably present in combination in amounts that are effective for
the purpose intended. The active ingredients may also be entrapped
in microcapsule prepared, for example, by coascervation techniques
or by interfacial polymerization, for example,
hydroxymethylcellulose or gelatin-microcapsule and
poly-(methylmethacylate) microcapsule, respectively, in colloidal
drug delivery systems (for example, liposomes, albumin micropheres,
microemulsions, nano-particles and nanocapsules) or in
macroemulsions. Such techniques are disclosed in Remington's
Pharmaceutical Sciences, 16th edition, A. Osal, Ed. (1980).
[0314] The formulations to be used for in vivo administration must
be sterile. This is readily accomplished, for example, by
filtration through sterile filtration membranes. Sustained-release
preparations may be prepared. Suitable examples of
sustained-release preparations include semi-permeable matrices of
solid hydrophobic polymers containing the antibody, or antibody
variant or fragment (e.g. antigen-binding fragment) thereof, which
matrices are in the form of shaped articles, e.g., films, or
microcapsules. Examples of sustained-release matrices include
polyesters, hydrogels (for example,
poly(2-hydroxyethyl-methacrylate), or poly(vinylalcohol)),
polylactides (U.S. Pat. No. 3,773,919), copolymers of L-glutamic
acid and ethyl-L-glutamate, non-degradable ethylene-vinyl acetate,
degradable lactic acid-glycolic acid copolymers such as the LUPRON
DEPOT.TM. (injectable microspheres composed of lactic acid-glycolic
acid copolymer and leuprolide acetate), and
poly-D-(-)-3-hydroxybutyric acid. While polymers such as
ethylene-vinyl acetate and lactic acid-glycolic acid enable release
of molecules for over 100 days, certain hydrogels release proteins
for shorter time periods. When encapsulated antibodies remain in
the body for a long time, they may denature or aggregate as a
result of exposure to moisture at 37.degree. C. resulting in a loss
of biological activity and possible changes in immunogenicity.
Rational strategies can be devised for stabilization depending on
the mechanism involved. For example, if the aggregation mechanism
is discovered to be intermolecular S--S bond formation through
thio-disulfide interchange, stabilization may be achieved by
modifying sulfhydryl residues, lyophilizing from acidic solutions,
controlling moisture content, using appropriate additives, and
developing specific polymer matrix compositions.
[0315] The compounds of the invention for prevention or treatment
of an ocular disease or condition are typically administered by
ocular, intraocular, and/or intravitreal injection, and/or
juxtascleral injection, and/or subtenon injection, and/or
superchoroidal injection and/or topical administration in the form
of eyedrops and/or ointment. Such compounds of the invention may be
delivered by a variety of methods, e.g. intravitreally as a device
and/or a depot that allows for slow release of the compound into
the vitreous, including those described in references such as
Intraocular Drug Delivery, Jaffe, Jaffe, Ashton, and Pearson,
editors, Taylor & Francis (March 2006). In one example, a
device may be in the form of a minpump and/or a matrix and/or a
passive diffusion system and/or encapsulated cells that release the
compound for a prolonged period of time (Intraocular Drug Delivery,
Jaffe, Jaffe, Ashton, and Pearson, editors, Taylor & Francis
(March 2006). Other methods of administration may also be used,
which includes but is not limited to, topical, parenteral,
subcutaneous, intraperitoneal, intrapulmonary, intranasal, and
intralesional administration. Parenteral infusions include
intramuscular, intravenous, intraarterial, intraperitoneal, or
subcutaneous administration.
[0316] Formulations for ocular, intraocular or intravitreal
administration can be prepared by methods and using ingredients
known in the art. A main requirement for efficient treatment is
proper penetration through the eye. Unlike diseases of the front of
the eye, where drugs can be delivered topically, retinal diseases
require a more site-specific approach. Eye drops and ointments
rarely penetrate the back of the eye, and the blood-ocular barrier
hinders penetration of systemically administered drugs into ocular
tissue. Accordingly, usually the method of choice for drug delivery
to treat retinal disease, such as AMD and CNV, is direct
intravitreal injection. Intravitrial injections are usually
repeated at intervals which depend on the patient's condition, and
the properties and half-life of the drug delivered. For intraocular
(e.g. intravitreal) penetration, usually molecules of smaller size
are preferred.
[0317] The efficacy of the treatment of complement-associated eye
conditions, such as AMD or CNV, can be measured by various
endpoints commonly used in evaluating intraocular diseases. For
example, vision loss can be assessed. Vision loss can be evaluated
by, but not limited to, e.g., measuring by the mean change in best
correction visual acuity (BCVA) from baseline to a desired time
point (e.g., where the BCVA is based on Early Treatment Diabetic
Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) visual acuity chart and assessment at a
test distance of 4 meters), measuring the proportion of subjects
who lose fewer than 15 letters in visual acuity at a desired time
point compared to baseline, measuring the proportion of subjects
who gain greater than or equal to 15 letters in visual acuity at a
desired time point compared to baseline, measuring the proportion
of subjects with a visual-acuity Snellen equivalent of 20/2000 or
worse at a desired time point, measuring the NEI Visual Functioning
Questionnaire, measuring the size of CNV and amount of leakage of
CNV at a desired time point, e.g., by fluorescein angiography, etc.
Ocular assessments can be done, e.g., which include, but are not
limited to, e.g., performing eye exam, measuring intraocular
pressure, assessing visual acuity, measuring slitlamp pressure,
assessing intraocular inflammation, etc.
[0318] The amount of therapeutic polypeptide, antibody, or antibody
variant thereof, or fragment thereof (e.g antigen-binding fragment)
which will be effective in the treatment of a particular disorder
or condition will depend on the nature of the disorder or
condition, and can be determined by standard clinical techniques.
Where possible, it is desirable to determine the dose-response
curve and the pharmaceutical compositions of the invention first in
vitro, and then in useful animal model systems prior to testing in
humans.
[0319] In one embodiment, an aqueous solution of therapeutic
polypeptide, antibody, or antibody variant thereof, or fragment
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), is administered by
subcutaneous injection. In another embodiment, an aqueous solution
of therapeutic polypeptide, antibody, or antibody variant thereof,
or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment) is administered
by intravitreal injection. Each dose may range from about 0.5 .mu.g
to about 50 .mu.g per kilogram of body weight, or more preferably,
from about 3 .mu.g to about 30 .mu.g per kilogram body weight.
[0320] The dosing schedule for subcutaneous administration may vary
form once a month to daily depending on a number of clinical
factors, including the type of disease, severity of disease, and
the subject's sensitivity to the therapeutic agent.
[0321] The following examples are offered for illustrative purposes
only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present
invention in any way.
[0322] All patent and literature references cited in the present
specification are hereby expressly incorporated by reference in
their entirety.
Articles of Manufacture and Kits
[0323] Another embodiment of the invention is an article of
manufacture containing materials useful for the treatment,
prevention and/or diagnosis of conditions targeted by the
antibodies of the invention, or variants thereof or fragments
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragments). For example, the
invention concerns an article of manufacture containing materials
useful for the treatment, prevention and/or diagnosis of
complement-associated disorders. The article of manufacture
comprises a container and a label or package insert on or
associated with the container. Suitable containers include, for
example, bottles, vials, syringes, etc. The containers may be
formed from a variety of materials such as glass or plastic. The
container holds a composition which is effective for treating,
preventing and/or diagnosis of the complement-associated condition
and may have a sterile access port (for example the container may
be an intravenous solution bag or a vial having a stopper
pierceable by a hypodermic injection needle). At least one active
agent in the composition is an anti-Factor D antibody, or fragment
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment) of the invention. The label
or package insert indicates that the composition is useful for
treatment, prevention and/or diagnosis of a particular
condition.
[0324] Package insert refers to instructions customarily included
in commercial packages of therapeutic products that contain
information about the indications, usage, dosage, administration,
contraindications and/or warnings concerning the use of such
therapeutic products. In one embodiment, the label or package
insert indicates that the composition is used for treating
complement-associated disorders, such as, for example, any of the
conditions listed before, including eye disorders e.g. iage-related
macular degeneration (AMD). The label or package insert will
further comprise instructions for administering the antibody
composition to the patient.
[0325] Additionally, the article of manufacture may further
comprise a second container comprising a
pharmaceutically-acceptable buffer, such as bacteriostatic water
for injection (BWFI), phosphate-buffered saline, Ringer's solution
and dextrose solution. It may further include other materials
desirable from a commercial and user standpoint, including other
buffers, diluents, filters, needles, and syringes.
[0326] In another embodiment, kits are also provided that are
useful for various purposes, e.g., for treatment, prevention and/or
diagnosis of complement-associated disorders, for
complement-associated hemolysis assays, for purification or
immunoprecipitation of Factor D polypeptide from cells. For
isolation and purification of Factor D polypeptide, the kit can
contain an anti-Factor D antibody coupled to beads (e.g., sepharose
beads). Kits can be provided which contain the antibodies for
detection and quantitation of Factor D polypeptide in vitro, e.g.,
in an ELISA or a Western blot. As with the article of manufacture,
the kit comprises a container and a label or package insert on or
associated with the container. The container holds a composition
comprising at least one anti-Factor antibody, or fragment thereof
(e.g. antigen-binding fragment) of the invention. Additional
containers may be included that contain, e.g., diluents and
buffers, control antibodies. The label or package insert may
provide a description of the composition as well as instructions
for the intended in vitro or detection use. The label or package
insert may provide instructions for the administration (e.g. the
antibody, or antibody fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment) to a subject.
Uses for the Humanized Antibody
[0327] The humanized antibodies, or fragments thereof (e.g.
antigen-binding fragments) or variant thereof, of the present
invention are useful in diagnostic assays, e.g., for detecting
expression of a target of interest in specific cells, tissues, or
serum. For diagnostic applications, the antibody, or antibody
variant thereof or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment), typically will be labeled with a detectable moiety.
Numerous labels are available. Techniques for quantifying a change
in fluorescence are described above. The chemiluminescent substrate
becomes electronically excited by a chemical reaction and may then
emit light which can be measured (using a chemiluminometer, for
example) or donates energy to a fluorescent acceptor. Examples of
enzymatic labels include luciferases (e.g., firefly luciferase and
bacterial luciferase; U.S. Pat. No. 4,737,456), luciferin,
2,3-dihydrophthalazinediones, malate dehydrogenase, urease,
peroxidase such as horseradish peroxidase (HRPO), alkaline
phosphatase, .beta.-galactosidase, glucoamylase, lysozyme,
saccharide oxidases (e.g., glucose oxidase, galactose oxidase, and
glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase), heterocyclic oxidases (such as
uricase and xanthine oxidase), lactoperoxidase, microperoxidase,
and the like. Techniques for conjugating enzymes to antibodies are
described in O'Sullivan et al., Methods for the Preparation of
Enzyme-Antibody Conjugates for Use in Enzyme Immunoassay, in
Methods in Enzym. (Ed. J. Langone & H. Van Vunakis), Academic
press, New York, 73: 147-166 (1981).
[0328] Sometimes, the label is indirectly conjugated with the
antibody, or antibody variant thereof or fragment thereof (e.g.
antigen-binding fragment). The skilled artisan will be aware of
various techniques for achieving this. For example, the antibody,
or antibody variant thereof or fragment thereof (e.g.
antigen-binding fragment), can be conjugated with biotin and any of
the three broad categories of labels mentioned above can be
conjugated with avidin, or vice versa. Biotin binds selectively to
avidin and thus, the label can be conjugated with the antibody, or
antibody variant thereof or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment), in this indirect manner. Alternatively, to achieve
indirect conjugation of the label with the antibody, or antibody
variant thereof or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment), the antibody, or antibody variant thereof or fragment
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), is conjugated with a small
hapten (e.g. digloxin) and one of the different types of labels
mentioned above is conjugated with an anti-hapten antibody, or
antibody variant thereof (e.g. anti-digloxin antibody) or fragment
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment). Thus, indirect conjugation
of the label with the antibody, or antibody variant thereof or
fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), can be
achieved.
[0329] In another embodiment of the invention, the antibody, or
antibody variant thereof or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment), need not be labeled, and the presence thereof can be
detected using a labeled antibody which binds to the antibody, or
antibody variant thereof or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment).
[0330] The antibodies, or antibody variants thereof, or fragment
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment) of the present invention
may be employed in any known assay method, such as competitive
binding assays, direct and indirect sandwich assays, and
immunoprecipitation assays. Zola, Monoclonal Antibodies: A Manual
of Techniques, pp. 147-158 (CRC Press, Inc. 1987).
[0331] Competitive binding assays rely on the ability of a labeled
standard to compete with the test sample for binding with a limited
amount of antibody, or antibody variant thereof or fragment thereof
(e.g. antigen-binding fragment). The amount of target in the test
sample is inversely proportional to the amount of standard that
becomes bound to the antibodies. To facilitate determining the
amount of standard that becomes bound, the antibodies generally are
insolubilized before or after the competition. As a result, the
standard and test sample that are bound to the antibodies may
conveniently be separated from the standard and test sample which
remain unbound.
[0332] Sandwich assays involve the use of two antibodies, or
fragments thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragments) each capable of
binding to a different immunogenic portion, or epitope, or the
protein to be detected. In a sandwich assay, the test sample to be
analyzed is bound by a first antibody which is immobilized on a
solid support, and thereafter a second antibody binds to the test
sample, thus forming an insoluble three-part complex. See e.g.,
U.S. Pat. No. 4,376,110. The second antibody may itself be labeled
with a detectable moiety (direct sandwich assays) or may be
measured using an anti-immunoglobulin antibody that is labeled with
a detectable moiety (indirect sandwich assay). For example, one
type of sandwich assay is an ELISA assay, in which case the
detectable moiety is an enzyme.
[0333] For immunohistochemistry, the tumor sample may be fresh or
frozen or may be embedded in paraffin and fixed with a preservative
such as formalin, for example.
[0334] The antibodies, or antibody variants thereof, or fragments
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragments) may also be used for in
vivo diagnostic assays. Generally, the antibody, or antibody
variant thereof or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment), is labeled with a radionucleotide (such as .sup.111 In,
.sup.99 Tc, .sup.14 C, .sup.131 I, .sup.3 H, .sup.32 P or .sup.35
S) so that the tumor can be localized using immunoscintiography.
For example, a high affinity anti-IgE antibody of the present
invention may be used to detect the amount of IgE present in, e.g.,
the lungs of an asthmatic patient.
[0335] The antibody, or antibody variant thereof or fragment
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), of the present invention
can be provided in a kit, i.e., packaged combination of reagents in
predetermined amounts with instructions for performing the
diagnostic assay. Where the antibody, or antibody variant thereof
or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), is labeled
with an enzyme, the kit may include substrates and cofactors
required by the enzyme (e.g., a substrate precursor which provides
the detectable chromophore or fluorophore). In addition, other
additives may be included such as stabilizers, buffers (e.g., a
block buffer or lysis buffer) and the like. The relative amounts of
the various reagents may be varied widely to provide for
concentrations in solution of the reagents which substantially
optimize the sensitivity of the assay. Particularly, the reagents
may be provided as dry powders, usually lyophilized, including
excipients which on dissolution will provide a reagent solution
having the appropriate concentration.
In Vivo Uses for the Antibody
[0336] It is contemplated that the antibodies, or antibodies
thereof, or fragments thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragments) of
the present invention may be used to treat a mammal. In one
embodiment, the antibody, or antibody thereof, is administered to a
nonhuman mammal for the purposes of obtaining preclinical data, for
example. Exemplary nonhuman mammals to be treated include nonhuman
primates, dogs, cats, rodents and other mammals in which
preclinical studies are performed. Such mammals may be established
animal models for a disease to be treated with the antibody, or
antibody thereof, or may be used to study toxicity of the antibody
of interest. In each of these embodiments, dose escalation studies
may be performed on the mammal.
[0337] The antibody, or variant thereof, or fragment thereof (e.g.
antigen-binding fragment) or polypeptide is administered by any
suitable means, including parenteral, subcutaneous,
intraperitoneal, intrapulmonary, and intranasal, and, if desired
for local immunosuppressive treatment, intralesional
administration. Parenteral infusions include intramuscular,
intravenous, intraarterial, intraperitoneal, or subcutaneous
administration. In addition, the antibody, or antibody variant
thereof or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), is
suitably administered by pulse infusion, particularly with
declining doses of the antibody, or antibody variant thereof or
fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment). Preferably the
dosing is given by injections, most preferably intravenous or
subcutaneous injections, depending in part on whether the
administration is brief or chronic.
[0338] For the prevention or treatment of disease, the appropriate
dosage of the antibody, or antibody variant thereof or fragment
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), or polypeptide will depend
on the type of disease to be treated, the severity and course of
the disease, whether the antibody, or antibody variant thereof or
fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), is administered
for preventive or therapeutic purposes, previous therapy, the
patient's clinical history and response to the antibody, or
antibody variant thereof or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment) and the discretion of the attending physician.
[0339] Depending on the type and severity of the disease, about 0.1
mg/kg to 150 mg/kg (e.g., 0.1-20 mg/kg) of antibody, or antibody
variant thereof or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragment), is an initial candidate dosage for administration to the
patient, whether, for example, by one or more separate
administrations, or by continuous infusion. A typical daily dosage
might range from about 1 mg/kg to 100 mg/kg or more, depending on
the factors mentioned above. For repeated administrations over
several days or longer, depending on the condition, the treatment
is sustained until a desired suppression of disease symptoms
occurs. However, other dosage regimens may be useful. The progress
of this therapy is easily monitored by conventional techniques and
assays. An exemplary dosing regimen is disclosed in WO
94/04188.
[0340] The antibody compositions may be formulated, dosed and
administered in a manner consistent with good medical practice.
Factors for consideration in this context include the particular
disorder being treated, the particular mammal being treated, the
clinical condition of the individual patient, the cause of the
disorder, the site of delivery of the agent, the method of
administration, the scheduling of administration, and other factors
known to medical practitioners. The "therapeutically effective
amount" of the antibody, or antibody variant thereof or fragment
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment), to be administered will be
governed by such considerations, and is the minimum amount
necessary to prevent, ameliorate, or treat a disease or disorder.
The antibody, or antibody variant thereof or fragment thereof (e.g.
antigen-binding fragment), need not be, but is optionally
formulated with one or more agents currently used to prevent or
treat the disorder in question. The effective amount of such other
agents depends on the amount of antibody, or antibody variant
thereof or fragment thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragment),
present in the formulation, the type of disorder or treatment, and
other factors discussed above. These are generally used in the same
dosages and with administration routes as used hereinbefore or
about from 1 to 99% of the heretofore employed dosages.
[0341] The antibodies, or antibody variants thereof, or fragments
thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragments) of the present invention
which recognize Factor D as their target may be used to treat
complement-mediated disorders. These disorders are associated with
excessive or uncontrolled complement activation. They include:
Complement activation during cardiopulmonary bypass operations;
complement activation due to ischemia-reperfusion following acute
myocardial infarction, aneurysm, stroke, hemorrhagic shock, crush
injury, multiple organ failure, hypobolemic shock and intestinal
ischemia. These disorders can also include disease or condition is
an inflammatory condition such as severe burns, endotoxemia, septic
shock, adult respiratory distress syndrome, hemodialysis;
anaphylactic shock, severe asthma, angioedema, Crohn's disease,
sickle cell anemia, poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis and
pancreatitis. The disorder may be the result of an adverse drug
reaction, drug allergy, IL-2 induced vascular leakage syndrome or
radiographic contrast media allergy. It also includes autoimmune
disease such as systemic lupus erythematosus, myasthenia gravis,
rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis.
Complement activation is also associated with transplant rejection.
Recently there has been a strong correlation shown between
complement activation and ocular diseases such as age-related
macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and other
ischemia-related retinopathies, choroidal neovascularization (CNV),
uveitis, diabetic macular edema, pathological myopia, von
Hippel-Lindau disease, histoplasmosis of the eye, Central Retinal
Vein Occlusion (CRVO), corneal neovascularization, and retinal
neovascularization.
EXAMPLES
[0342] The following examples are offered by way of illustration
and not by way of limitation. Commercially available reagents
referred to in the examples were used according to manufacturers
instructions unless otherwise indicated. The source of those cells
identified in the following examples, and throughout the
specification, by ATCC accession numbers is the American Type
Culture Collection, 10801 University Boulevard, Manassas, Va.
20110-2209.
Example 1: Modification of Anti-Factor D Abs
[0343] To identify modified anti-Factor D antibodies, and variants
thereof, and fragments thereof (e.g. antigen-binding fragments)
that would have commercially desireable characteristics such as
homogeneity during manufacturing and production or for purposes of
analytical characterization, a site-directed mutagenesis approach
was used to generate modified humanized anti-factor D antibodies,
and variants thereof, and fragments thereof (e.g. antigen-binding
fragments). First, the variable heavy and light chain domains from
humanized anti-Factor D Fab clone #111 (SEQ ID NO: 2 and SEQ ID NO:
1, respectively) were subcloned into an expression plasmid.
Secondly, oligonucleotides encoding single mutations were annealed
to the resulting expression plasmid to introduce the site-directed
mutations.
[0344] Initially, the variable heavy and light chain domains of
humanized anti-Factor D Fab clone #111 were subcloned into the
plasmid pAEP1 (pAEP1 is a plasmid for the expression of Fab
antibodies in E. coli.), with the subcloning resulting in the
introduction of a valine (V) at position 104 (according to Kabat
numbering, see FIG. 10) of the variable light chain domain.
[0345] The subcloning of the variable light chain domain domain of
humanized anti-Factor D Fab clone #111 into pAEP1 involved the
ligation of two DNA fragments. The first fragment was the pAEP1
vector in which the small EcoRV/KpnI fragment had been removed. The
second fragment was an approximately 300 base pair EcoRV-KpnI PCR
fragment generated from the light chain plasmid for the humanized
anti-Factor D Fab clone #111, using the following primers:
TABLE-US-00005 (SEQ ID NO: 67)
5'-TTTCCCTTTGATATCCAGGTGACCCAGTCTCCATCCT-3' (SEQ ID NO: 68)
5'-TTTCCCTTTGGTACCCTGGCCAAACGTGTACGGCAAAGAATC-3'.
[0346] The subcloning of the variable light chain domain of
humanized anti-Factor D clone #111 into pAEP1 introduced a valine
(V) at position 104 because position 104 is 2 amino acids
downstream of the restriction endonuclease sites, EcoRV and KpnI,
which were used to insert the variable light chain domain of
humanized anti-Factor D clone #111 into pAEP1 and therefore in the
backbone of the pAEP1 plasmid. This resulting intermediate plasmid
is herein referred to as "pAEP1-283-VL".
[0347] The subcloning of the variable heavy chain domain of
humanized anti-Factor D clone #111 into pAEP1-238-VL involved the
ligation of two DNA fragments. The first fragment was the
pAEP1-238-VL vector in which the small BsiWI/PspOMI fragment had
been removed. The second fragment was an approximately 364 base
pair BsiWI-PspOMI PCR fragment generated from the heavy chain
plasmid for the humanized anti-Factor D Fab clone #111, using the
following primers:
TABLE-US-00006 (SEQ ID NO: 69)
5'-TTTGGGTTTCGTACGCTCAGGTCCAGCTGGTGCAATCTGGG-3' (SEQ ID NO: 70)
5'-TTTGGGTTTGGGCCCTTGGTGGAGGCTGAGGAGACGGTGACCAGGG T-3'.
This ligation of the two DNA fragments resulted in the plasmid for
humanized anti-Factor D Fab antibody variant 238 (also herein
referred to as "238"; plasmid is herein referred to as "p238").
[0348] After the subcloning of the variable light and heavy chain
domains from humanized anti-Factor D #111, site-directed PCR
mutagenesis was used to mutate the glutamine (Q) at position 1
(according to Kabat numbering, see FIG. 1) of the variable heavy
chain of humanized anti-Factor D Fab antibody variant 238 to a
glutamate (E), resulting in humanized anti-Factor D Fab antibody
variant 238-1 (also herein referred to as "238-1"). The
construction of the plasmid for humanized anti-Factor D Fab
antibody variant 238-1 (plasmid is herein referred to as "p238-1")
involved the ligation of two DNA fragments. The first fragment was
the p238 vector in which the small BsiWI/PspOMI fragment had been
removed. The second fragment was an approximately 364 base pair
BsiWI-PspOMI PCR fragment generated from the p238 plasmid, using
the following primers:
TABLE-US-00007 (SEQ ID NO: 71)
5'-TTTGGGTTTCGTACGCTGAAGTCCAGCTGGTGCAATCTGGG-3' (SEQ ID NO: 72)
5'-TTTGGGTTTGGGCCCTTGGTGGAGGCTGAGGAGACGGTGACCAGGG T-3'.
This ligation of the two DNA fragments resulted in the plasmid for
humanized anti-Factor D Fab antibody variant 238-1 (also herein
referred to as "238-1"; plasmid is herein referred to as "p238-1"),
which included the site-directed mutation of the position 1 to a
glutamate (E). This mutation was found to inhibit the partial
conversion of the glutamine (Q) in humanized anti-Factor D Fab
antibody variant 238-1 to pyroglutamate (Amphlett, G. et al.,
Pharm. Biotechnol., 9:1-140 (1996)).
[0349] Further site-directed PCR mutagenesis may be used to mutate
methionine (M or Met) or tryptophan (W or Trp) residues to prevent
oxidation or to mutate asparagine (N or Asn) residues to prevent
deamidation. To prevent the formation of oxidized variants of the
humanized anti-Factor D antibodies, methionines (M or Met), for
example at position 33 of the light chain may be mutated to leucine
(L or Leu) which is most similar in size and hydrophobicity to
methionine, but lacks a sulfur for oxidation, or alternatively
mutated to isoleucine (I or Ile) (Amphlett, G. et al., Pharm.
Biotechnol., 9:1-140 (1996)). To prevent the formation of
deamidated variants of the humanized anti-Factor D antibodies,
asparagines (N or Asn), for example at position 34 and 52 of the
light chain or position 99 or 100 of the heavy chain may be mutated
to glutamine (Q or Gln) which is most similar chemically to
asparagine (N or Asn), or mutated to alanine (A or Ala) or serine
(S or Ser) which are common substitutions at those positions in
other antibodies (Amphlett, G. et al., Pharm. Biotechnol., 9:1-140
(1996)).
[0350] FIGS. 1-2 shows the variable light chain domain and variable
heavy chain domain sequences for humanized anti-Factor D Fab
antibody variant 238 (SEQ ID Nos: 6 and 18, respectively) and
humanized anti-Factor D Fab antibody variant 238-1 (SEQ ID NOs: 7
and 19, respectively). FIG. 4 and FIG. 6 show the light chain and
heavy chain sequences (SEQ ID NOs: 47 and 54, respectively) for
humanized anti-Factor D Fab antibody variant 238. FIG. 8 and FIG.
10 show the light chain and heavy chain sequences (SEQ ID NOs: 61
and 63, respectively) for humanized anti-Factor D Fab antibody
variant 238-1.
[0351] BiaCore data showed affinity of humanized anti-Factor D Fab
antibody variant 238 to human Factor D as well as affinity of
humanized anti-Factor D full-length mAb version of clone #111
(humanized anti-Factor D full-length mAb 234) (herein referred to
as "234" or "anti-Factor D full-length mAb 234" or "humanized
anti-Factor D full-length MAb 234") (Table 2). Humanized
anti-Factor D Fab antibody variants 238 and 238-1 were also tested
in the hemolytic inhibition assay (FIG. 11) to assess the
inhibition of the alternative pathway (see Example 3).
Example 2: AP Hemolysis Assay
[0352] Biological function of modified anti-Factor D Abs were
determined using hemolytic inhibition assay using C1q-depleted
human serum and BiaCore analysis (See Example 3 below). Hemolytic
assay was performed as follows.
[0353] For determining alternative pathway activity, rabbit
erythrocytes (Er, Colorado Serum) were washed 3.times. in GVB and
resuspended to 2.times.10.sup.9/ml. Inhibitors (50 .mu.I) and 20
.mu.I of Er suspension were mixed 1:1 with GVB/0.1M EGTA/0.1M
MgCl.sub.2. Complement activation was initiated by the addition of
C1q-depleted human serum (to avoid any complement activation
through the classical pathway) (CompTech; 30 .mu.l diluted 1:3 in
GVB). After a 30 minute incubation at room temperature, 200 .mu.l
GVB/10 mM EDTA were added to stop the reaction and samples were
centrifuged for 5 min at 500 g. Hemolysis was determined in 200
.mu.l supernatant by measuring absorbance at 412 nm. Data were
expressed as % of hemolysis induced in the absence of the
inhibitor.
[0354] FIG. 11 shows inhibition of humanized anti-Factor D Fab
clone #111 (IC.sub.50=4.7.+-.0.6 nM), modified anti-Factor D Fab
238 (IC.sub.50=6.4.+-.0.6 nM) and modified anti-Factor D Fab 238-1
(IC.sub.50=3.5.+-.0.5 nM) on alternative pathway hemolysis using
rabbit red blood cell hemolysis assay using C1q-depleted human
serum as complement source. Controls were Factor H ("Human fH")
(from CompTech) and anti-glycoprotein 120 ("xgp120")
antibodies.
Example 3: Kinetic Analysis of Anti-Human Factor D Fab by
BiaCore
[0355] Kinetic and affinity constants for binding of human Factor D
(Advanced Research, Inc.) to immobilized modified anti-factor D Fab
238 (herein referred to as "238"; see Example 1) were determined by
surface plasmon resonance measurements on both BiaCore 3000 and
BiaCore A100 instruments. For the values in Table 2 that are listed
as "BiaCore 3000/BiaCore A100" results, separate experiments were
done on each instrument, the data from the separate experiments
were analyzed to get kinetic constants, and the kinetic constants
were averaged to get the values shown in Table 2. Alternatively,
kinetic and affinity constants for binding of human Factor D may be
measured by immobilizing human Factor D and measuring the binding
of the mAb or Fab, may be measured using different regeneration
conditions (e.g. comprising 4M MgCl.sub.2) and/or may be measured
using different binding buffers (e.g. comprising PBS). Humanized
anti-factor D full-length mAb version of clone #111 (herein
referred to as "234" or "anti-Factor D full-length mAb 234" or
"humanized anti-Factor D full-length mAb 234") was also
analyzed.
[0356] 1. Immobilization
[0357] mAb or Fab were immobilized via amine-coupling using a
standard protocol supplied by the manufacturer. The density of the
coupling was regulated by adjusting the concentration or pH of the
injected mAb or Fab solutions such that the total signal for
saturating binding of human factor D was between 50 and 150
resonance units (RU). After coupling of the desired amount of mAb
or Fab, unreacted functional groups on the sensor chip were blocked
by injection of ethanolamine.
[0358] 2. Kinetic Analysis
[0359] Binding experiments were conducting by injecting 60 .mu.L
aliquots of a series of human factor D solutions varied in
concentration from 500 nM to 0.98 nM in 2-fold increments. All
samples were diluted in running buffer composed of 150 mM NaCl,
0.01% Tween-20 and one of the following buffer components: (a) pH
7.2 (10 mM HEPES (4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic
acid); (b) pH 6.0 (10 mM MES (2-[N-Morpholino]ethanesulfonic acid);
or pH 5.0 (10 mM sodium acetate). The flow rate was 30 .mu.L/min
and dissociation was monitored for 10 minutes for each
concentration of human factor D tested. The signal (sensorgram)
observed for injection of the same solutions over a reference cell
(ethanolamine blocked) was subtracted from the sensorgram. Between
sensorgrams the surface was regenerated by injection of 30 .mu.L of
4 M MgCl.sub.2 to cause dissociation of any human factor D
remaining bound to the immobilized antibody. A control sensorgram
recorded for injection of buffer only over the sensor chip surface
was subtracted from the human factor D sensorgrams. These data were
analyzed by non-linear regression according to a 1:1 Langmuir
binding model using BIAevaluation software v4.1. Kinetic and
affinity constants are provided in the Table 2 below. BiaCore
technology is limited and is not able to accurately measure
on-rates that are too fast (i.e. K.sub.D values smaller than about
10 pM) (Safsten et al., Anal. Biochem., 353: 181 (2006)).
TABLE-US-00008 TABLE 2 BiaCore Results Fab or Antibody ka (M-1s-1)
kd (s-1) K.sub.D (M) Modified Anti-factor D Fab 238 1.5 .times.
10.sup.8 1.7 .times. 10.sup.-4 1.0 .times. 10.sup.-12 (pH 7.2;
A100) (1.0 pM .+-. 0.05) Modified Anti-factor D Fab 238 8.4 .+-. 9
.times. 10.sup.8 1.4 .+-. 1.7 .times. 10.sup.-3 1.4 .times.
10.sup.-12 (pH 7.2; 3000/A100) (1.4 pM .+-. 0.5) Modified
Anti-factor D Fab 238 1.9 .times. 10.sup.6 3.6 .times. 10.sup.-4
0.19 .times. 10.sup.-9 (pH 6; 3000) (0.19 nM .+-. 0.01) Modified
Anti-factor D Fab 238 1.2 .times. 10.sup.6 0.02 12.3 .times.
10.sup.-9 (pH 5; A100) (12.3 nM .+-. 2) Anti-factor D full-length
mAb 234 1.9 .times. 10.sup.8 1.3 .times. 10.sup.-4 0.7 .times.
10.sup.-12 (pH 7.2; A100) (0.7 pM .+-. 0.04) Anti-factor D
full-length mAb 234 9.5 .+-. 10 .times. 10.sup.8 1.3 .+-. 1.7
.times. 10.sup.-3 1.1 .times. 10.sup.-12 (pH 7.2; 3000/A100) (1.1
pM .+-. 0.6) Anti-factor D full-length mAb 234 2.8 .times. 10.sup.6
2.2 .times. 10.sup.-4 .08 .times. 10.sup.-9 (pH 6; 3000) (0.08 nM
.+-. 0.01) Anti-factor D full-length mAb 234 2.2 .times. 10.sup.6
2.0 .times. 10.sup.-2 .sup. 9 .times. 10.sup.-9 (pH 5; A100) (9.0
nM .+-. 1.0)
Example 4: AP Hemolysis Assay with Varying Factor D
Concentrations
[0360] Biological function of modified anti-Factor D Abs, including
anti-Factor D Fab 238, were determined using hemolytic inhibition
assay using C1q-depleted human serum and BiaCore analysis (See
Example 2 above), in the presence of three serum concentrations of
Factor D.
[0361] C1q-depleted human serum (CompTech) as well as vitreous
fluid and Bruch's membrane tissue from eyes of AMD patients
(obtained through a collaboration with the Cole Eye Institute,
Cleveland, Ohio) were analyzed in a quantitative ELISA for Factor D
(see below). The concentration of Factor D in the C1q-depleted
serum was 97 nM, whereas the level in vitreous fluid and Bruch's
membrane tissue from AMD patients was 16.2.+-.10.3 nM (mean.+-.SD,
n=10).
[0362] The quantitative factor D ELISA was performed by diluting
anti-human complement factor D goat polyclonal antibody (R&D
Systems, Minneapolis, Minn.) to 1 .mu.g/mL in phosphate buffered
saline (PBS) and coating the anti-factor D polyclonal antibody
(R&D Systems, Minneapolis, Minn.) onto 384 well ELISA plates
(high-bind plates; Greiner Bio One through VWR International,
Bridgeport, N.J.) during an overnight incubation at 4.degree. C.
After washing 3 times with wash buffer (PBS/0.05% Tween-20), the
plates were blocked for 1-2 hr with PBS/0.5% bovine serum albumin
(BSA). This and all other incubations were performed at room
temperature on an orbital shaker. A standard curve of factor D
(Complement Technology, Inc., Tyler, Tex.) was prepared in PBS/0.5%
BSA/0.05% Tween-20 over a range of 15.6-1,000 .mu.g/ml. Frozen
control samples pre-diluted to quantitate at the high, mid, and low
regions of the standard curve were thawed. C1q-depleted human serum
and human vitreous fluid and Bruch's membrane lysate samples were
diluted using Assay Diluent (PBS/0.5% BSA/0.5% Tween-20). After the
blocking step, the plates were washed and the diluted samples
(serum, vitreous fluid, and lysates of Bruch's membrane), standards
and controls were added and incubated for 2 hours. After the 2 hr
incubation, the plates were washed, and bound factor D was detected
during a 1 to 2 hr incubation with a biotinylated anti-factor D
monoclonal antibody (clone 9G7.1.16, produced at Genentech, diluted
to 62.5 ng/ml) followed by a 30 min incubation with
streptavidin-horseradish peroxidase (SA-HRP)_(Amersham Pharmacia
Biotech, Piscataway, N.J.), diluted 1/10,000 in Assay Diluent.
Following a final wash step, tetramethyl benzidine (Kirkegaard
& Perry Laboratories, Inc., Gaithersburg, Md.) was added, and
color was allowed to develop for 5 to 7 min. The reaction was
stopped by the addition of 1 M phosphoric acid. The optical density
was read using a microplate reader (450 nm, 650 nm reference), and
the sample concentrations were calculated from four-parameter fits
of the standard curves. The minimum quantifiable concentrations of
factor D in human vitreous fluid and Bruch's membrane lysate
samples were 780 pg/mL (1/50 minimum dilution) and 156 pg/mL (1/10
minimum dilution), respectively.
[0363] In order to determine the IC.sub.50 and IC.sub.90 values for
inhibition of the alternative complement pathway using modified
anti-Factor D Fab 238 in the presence of factor D concentrations
similar to the concentrations of Factor D observed in vitreous
fluid and Bruch's membrane tissues from eyes of AMD patients, the
hemolytic assay was performed as described in Example 2, using 10%
C1q-depleted serum (9.7 nM factor D) or using 10% C1q-depleted
serum supplemented with additional factor D (CompTech) to achieve
factor D concentrations representing the mean (16.2 nM) or the
mean.+-.1 SD (26.5 nM) concentration observed in vitreous fluid and
Bruch's membrane tissues from eyes of AMD patients. Data were
expressed as % of hemolysis induced in the absence of the inhibitor
(FIG. 12). The concentrations of anti-Factor D Fab 238 causing 50%
and 90% inhibition of the hemolytic reaction (IC.sub.50 and
IC.sub.90 values, respectively) were determined for three repeat
experiments by non-linear regression of the inhibition curves using
a four-parameter fit model (KaleidaGraph, Synergy Software,
Reading, Pa.). The molar ratios of the IC.sub.50 and IC.sub.90
values versus the relative concentration of Factor D were also
calculated. The average IC.sub.50 and IC.sub.90 values and molar
ratios are shown in Table 3.
TABLE-US-00009 TABLE 3 IC50 and IC90 for Anti-Factor D Fab
Anti-Factor D Fab (238-1) IC50 IC90 Factor D Molar Molar
Concentration ratio Ratio (nM) nM (IC.sub.50/fD) nM (IC.sub.90/fD)
9.7 (nM) 4.4 .+-. 1.5 0.454 14.0 .+-. 1.0 1.443 16.2 (nM) 10.2 .+-.
0.8 0.630 38.0 .+-. 11.0 2.346 26.5 (nM) 23.9 .+-. 5.0 0.902 72.6
.+-. 4.8 2.740
Example 5: Duration of Inhibition of Alternative Pathway Complement
Activation
[0364] The simulated duration of inhibition of the alternative
pathway (AP) complement activation in a human eye using a single
intravitreal (IVT) injection of anti-Factor D Fab 238 at a 2.5 mg
dose (assuming a half-life (t.sub.1/2) of anti-Factor D Fab 238 of
11.5 days, based on interspecies scaling from the rabbit), was
measured (Example 13). The simulated data are based on scaling from
a PK study of single intravitreal dose of Fab 238 in the New
Zealand white rabbit.
[0365] To estimate the half-life of anti-Factor D Fab 238 in
humans, the half-life of anti-Factor D 238 in rabbits was
calculated. Twelve (12) New Zealand White rabbits were administered
a single intravitreal dose of 1 mg Fab 238 in each eye. Vitreous
humor and retinal tissue samples were collected from both eyes from
the specified number of animals at the following timepoints; 3
animals at 4, 24 and 96 hours (n=6 samples at each of these
timepoints) and one animal at 216 hours (n=2 samples at this
timepoint) and 2 animals at 240 hours (n=4 samples at this
timepoint). The concentrations of Fab 238 in the ocular matrices
were measured in a factor D binding ELISA.
[0366] The vitreous humor concentration-time data from all animals
were analyzed to estimate pharmacokinetic parameter estimates using
a naive pooled approach with the IV bolus input model (Models 201,
WinNonlin Pro version 5.2.1; Pharsight Corporation, Mountain View,
Calif.) to provide one estimate of terminal half-life (T.sub.112)
of 3.83 days. The retinal partition coefficient was calculated as
the ratio of the concentration in the retinal tissue to vitreous
humor averaged for all eyes at all timepoints, and was equal to
0.24. The PK parameters for vitreous humor were scaled to human
using the same scaling factors observed for ranibizumab. The human
eye is assumed to have a V.sub.1 of 4 mL, the ratio of half-life in
the human to the rabbit is assumed to be 3, producing an estimate
of t.sub.1/2 in human of 11.5 days. This produced the estimate for
vitreous concentration and retinal tissue concentrations as a
function of time as:
Vitreous
Concentration=(Dose/V.sub.1)*exp([-ln(2)/t.sub.1/2]*time)
Retinal tissue
Concentration=(Dose/V.sub.1)*exp([-ln(2)/t.sub.1/2]*time)*(retinal
partition coefficient)
[0367] In FIG. 13, the graph was produced for a single ITV dose of
2.5 mg/eye, and represents time from t=0 to t=112 days. IC.sub.90
represents the concentration of Fab 238 that produces a 90%
inhibitory effect in the hemolysis assay performed as shown in
Example 2 and 4 in which 10% pooled human serum was supplemented to
a Factor D concentration of 16.2 nM. The assay result was
IC.sub.90=38 nM Fab 238. To compare to the retinal & vitreous
concentrations, a molar to mass conversion was done using the
following equation:
IC.sub.90=38.times.10.sup.-9 moles/L
MW of Fab 238=50,000 grams/mole
IC.sub.90 (ug/mL)=(38.times.10.sup.-9
moles/L).times.(50.times.10.sup.3 grams/mole)=1.9.times.10.sup.-9
grams/L, or 1.9 ug/mL
[0368] As shown in FIG. 13, the "days above IC.sub.90" was
estimated as the amount of time the vitreous or retinal
concentration would be predicted to be above 1.9 ug/mL after a
single ITV dose of 2.5 mg/eye, and was observed as the point where
the graph of the vitreous or retinal concentrations cross the line
at 1.9 ug/mL. A single IVT injection of anti-Factor D Fab 238 was
estimated to inhibit AP complement activation in the retinal tissue
for at least about 74 days and in the vitreous humor for at least
about 97 days. The dashed line in FIG. 13 shows the simulated
anti-Factor D Fab 238 concentration in the vitreous humor following
intravitreal administration. The solid line in FIG. 13 shows the
simulated anti-Factor D Fab 238 concentration in the retinal tissue
following intravitreal administration. The difference in the
concentration in the vitreous humor and retinal tissue is based
upon an estimate of the retinal tissue partition coefficient of
20%; in other words, 20% of the total drug administered to the
vitreous humor will have access to the retinal tissue
[0369] Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to
ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many
equivalents to the specific embodiments of the invention described
herein. Such equivalents are intended to be encompassed by the
following claims.
[0370] Although the foregoing invention has been described in some
detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity
of understanding, the descriptions and examples should not be
construed as limiting the scope of the invention. The disclosures
of all patent and scientific literatures cited herein are expressly
incorporated in their entirety by reference.
[0371] The foregoing written specification is considered to be
sufficient to enable one skilled in the art to practice the
invention. The present invention is not to be limited in scope by
the construct deposited, since the deposited embodiment is intended
as a single illustration of certain aspects of the invention and
any constructs that are functionally equivalent are within the
scope of this invention. Indeed, various modifications of the
invention in addition to those shown and described herein will
become apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing
description and fall within the scope of the appended claims.
Sequence CWU 1
1
741107PRTArtificial sequenceVariable Light Chain Domain of
Humanized Clone #111 1Asp Ile Gln Val Thr Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu
Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val Thr Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr
Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25 30Asp Asp Met Asn Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro
Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu Ile Ser Gly Gly Asn Thr Leu Arg
Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe Ser Gly Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp
Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser Leu Gln Pro Glu Asp Val Ala Thr
Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85 90Ser Asp Ser Leu Pro Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln
Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu 95 100 105Ile Lys2115PRTArtificial
sequenceVariable Heavy Chain Domain of Humanized Clone #111 2Gln
Val Gln Leu Val Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10
15Ala Ser Val Lys Val Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25
30Asn Tyr Gly Met Asn Trp Val Arg Gln Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40
45Glu Trp Met Gly Trp Ile Asn Thr Tyr Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55
60Ala Asp Asp Phe Lys Gly Arg Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70
75Val Ser Thr Ala Tyr Leu Gln Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85
90Thr Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys Glu Arg Glu Gly Gly Val Asn Asn Trp 95
100 105Gly Gln Gly Thr Leu Val Thr Val Ser Ser 110
115331PRTArtificial sequenceSequence is synthesized (FR3 from VH
acceptor human framework) 3Arg Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser Val
Ser Thr Ala Tyr Leu 1 5 10 15Gln Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp
Thr Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys 20 25 30Ser432PRTArtificial
sequenceSequence is synthesized (FR3 from VH acceptor human
framework) 4Arg Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser Val Ser Thr Ala Tyr
Leu 1 5 10 15Gln Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp Thr Ala Val Tyr
Tyr Cys 20 25 30Ser Arg510PRTArtificial sequenceSequence is
synthesized (FR4 from VL acceptor human framework) 5Phe Gly Gln Gly
Thr Lys Val Glu Ile Lys 5 106107PRTArtificial sequenceVariable
light chain domain of modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238 6Asp
Ile Gln Val Thr Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10
15Gly Asp Arg Val Thr Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25
30Asp Asp Met Asn Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40
45Leu Leu Ile Ser Gly Gly Asn Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55
60Arg Phe Ser Gly Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70
75Ser Ser Leu Gln Pro Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85
90Ser Asp Ser Leu Pro Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Val Glu 95
100 105Ile Lys7107PRTArtificial sequenceVariable light chain domain
of modified humanized anti-factor D Fab 238-1 7Asp Ile Gln Val Thr
Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val
Thr Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25 30Asp Asp Met Asn
Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu Ile Ser
Gly Gly Asn Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe Ser Gly
Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser Leu Gln
Pro Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85 90Ser Asp Ser Leu
Pro Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Val Glu 95 100 105Ile
Lys8107PRTArtificial sequenceVariable lilght chain domain of
modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-2 8Asp Ile Gln Val Thr Gln
Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val Thr
Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25 30Asp Asp Leu Asn Trp
Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu Ile Ser Gly
Gly Asn Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe Ser Gly Ser
Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser Leu Gln Pro
Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85 90Ser Asp Ser Leu Pro
Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu 95 100 105Ile
Lys9107PRTArtificial sequenceVariable light chain domain of
modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-3 9Asp Ile Gln Val Thr Gln
Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val Thr
Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25 30Asp Asp Ile Asn Trp
Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu Ile Ser Gly
Gly Asn Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe Ser Gly Ser
Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser Leu Gln Pro
Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85 90Ser Asp Ser Leu Pro
Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu 95 100 105Ile
Lys10107PRTArtificial sequenceVariable light chain domain of
modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-4 10Asp Ile Gln Val Thr
Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val
Thr Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25 30Asp Asp Met Ala
Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu Ile Ser
Gly Gly Asn Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe Ser Gly
Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser Leu Gln
Pro Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85 90Ser Asp Ser Leu
Pro Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu 95 100 105Ile
Lys11107PRTArtificial sequenceVariable light chain domain of
modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-5 11Asp Ile Gln Val Thr
Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val
Thr Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25 30Asp Asp Met Gln
Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu Ile Ser
Gly Gly Asn Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe Ser Gly
Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser Leu Gln
Pro Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85 90Ser Asp Ser Leu
Pro Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu 95 100 105Ile
Lys12107PRTArtificial sequenceVariable light chain domain of
modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-6 12Asp Ile Gln Val Thr
Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val
Thr Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25 30Asp Asp Met Asn
Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu Ile Ser
Gly Gly Ser Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe Ser Gly
Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser Leu Gln
Pro Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85 90Ser Asp Ser Leu
Pro Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu 95 100 105Ile
Lys13107PRTArtificial sequenceVariable light chain domain of
modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-7 13Asp Ile Gln Val Thr
Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val
Thr Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25 30Asp Asp Met Asn
Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu Ile Ser
Gly Gly Ala Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe Ser Gly
Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser Leu Gln
Pro Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85 90Ser Asp Ser Leu
Pro Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu 95 100 105Ile
Lys14107PRTArtificial sequenceVariable light chain domain of
modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-8 14Asp Ile Gln Val Thr
Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val
Thr Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25 30Asp Asp Met Asn
Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu Ile Ser
Gly Gly Asn Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe Ser Gly
Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser Leu Gln
Pro Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85 90Ser Asp Ser Leu
Pro Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu 95 100 105Ile
Lys15107PRTArtificial sequenceVariable light chain domain of
modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-9 15Asp Ile Gln Val Thr
Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val
Thr Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25 30Asp Asp Met Asn
Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu Ile Ser
Gly Gly Asn Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe Ser Gly
Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser Leu Gln
Pro Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85 90Ser Asp Ser Leu
Pro Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu 95 100 105Ile
Lys16107PRTArtificial sequenceVariable light chain domain of
modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-10 16Asp Ile Gln Val Thr
Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val
Thr Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25 30Asp Asp Met Asn
Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu Ile Ser
Gly Gly Asn Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe Ser Gly
Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser Leu Gln
Pro Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85 90Ser Asp Ser Leu
Pro Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu 95 100 105Ile
Lys17107PRTArtificial sequenceVariable light chain domain of
modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-11 17Asp Ile Gln Val Thr
Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val
Thr Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25 30Asp Asp Met Asn
Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu Ile Ser
Gly Gly Asn Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe Ser Gly
Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser Leu Gln
Pro Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85 90Ser Asp Ser Leu
Pro Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Leu Glu 95 100 105Ile
Lys18115PRTArtificial sequenceVariable heavy chain domain of
modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238 18Gln Val Gln Leu Val Gln
Ser Gly Pro Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser Val Lys Val
Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25 30Asn Tyr Gly Met Asn
Trp Val Arg Gln Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40 45Glu Trp Met Gly Trp
Ile Asn Thr Tyr Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55 60Ala Asp Asp Phe Lys
Gly Arg Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70 75Val Ser Thr Ala Tyr
Leu Gln Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85 90Thr Ala Val Tyr Tyr
Cys Glu Arg Glu Gly Gly Val Asn Asn Trp 95 100 105Gly Gln Gly Thr
Leu Val Thr Val Ser Ser 110 11519115PRTArtificial sequenceVariable
heavy chain domain of modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-1
19Glu Val Gln Leu Val Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5
10 15Ala Ser Val Lys Val Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20
25 30Asn Tyr Gly Met Asn Trp Val Arg Gln Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35
40 45Glu Trp Met Gly Trp Ile Asn Thr Tyr Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50
55 60Ala Asp Asp Phe Lys Gly Arg Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65
70 75Val Ser Thr Ala Tyr Leu Gln Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80
85 90Thr Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys Glu Arg Glu Gly Gly Val Asn Asn Trp 95
100 105Gly Gln Gly Thr Leu Val Thr Val Ser Ser 110
11520115PRTArtificial sequenceVariable heavy chain domain of
modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-2 20Gln Val Gln Leu Val
Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser Val Lys
Val Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25 30Asn Tyr Gly Met
Asn Trp Val Arg Gln Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40 45Glu Trp Met Gly
Trp Ile Asn Thr Tyr Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55 60Ala Asp Asp Phe
Lys Gly Arg Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70 75Val Ser Thr Ala
Tyr Leu Gln Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85 90Thr Ala Val Tyr
Tyr Cys Glu Arg Glu Gly Gly Val Asn Asn Trp 95 100 105Gly Gln Gly
Thr Leu Val Thr Val Ser Ser 110 11521115PRTArtificial
sequenceVariable heavy chain domain of modified humanized
anti-Factor D Fab 238-3 21Gln Val Gln Leu Val Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu
Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser Val Lys Val Ser Cys Lys Ala
Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25 30Asn Tyr Gly Met Asn Trp Val Arg Gln
Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40 45Glu Trp Met Gly Trp Ile Asn Thr Tyr
Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55 60Ala Asp Asp Phe Lys Gly Arg Phe Val
Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70 75Val Ser Thr Ala Tyr Leu Gln Ile Ser
Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85 90Thr Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys Glu Arg Glu
Gly Gly Val Asn Asn Trp 95 100 105Gly Gln Gly Thr Leu Val Thr Val
Ser Ser 110 11522115PRTArtificial sequenceVariable heavy chain
domain of modified
humanized anti-Factor D FAB 238-4 22Gln Val Gln Leu Val Gln Ser Gly
Pro Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser Val Lys Val Ser Cys
Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25 30Asn Tyr Gly Met Asn Trp Val
Arg Gln Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40 45Glu Trp Met Gly Trp Ile Asn
Thr Tyr Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55 60Ala Asp Asp Phe Lys Gly Arg
Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70 75Val Ser Thr Ala Tyr Leu Gln
Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85 90Thr Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys Glu
Arg Glu Gly Gly Val Asn Asn Trp 95 100 105Gly Gln Gly Thr Leu Val
Thr Val Ser Ser 110 11523115PRTArtificial sequenceVariable heavy
chain domain of modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-5 23Gln
Val Gln Leu Val Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10
15Ala Ser Val Lys Val Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25
30Asn Tyr Gly Met Asn Trp Val Arg Gln Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40
45Glu Trp Met Gly Trp Ile Asn Thr Tyr Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55
60Ala Asp Asp Phe Lys Gly Arg Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70
75Val Ser Thr Ala Tyr Leu Gln Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85
90Thr Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys Glu Arg Glu Gly Gly Val Asn Asn Trp 95
100 105Gly Gln Gly Thr Leu Val Thr Val Ser Ser 110
11524115PRTArtificial sequenceVariable heavy chain domain of
modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-6 24Gln Val Gln Leu Val
Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser Val Lys
Val Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25 30Asn Tyr Gly Met
Asn Trp Val Arg Gln Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40 45Glu Trp Met Gly
Trp Ile Asn Thr Tyr Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55 60Ala Asp Asp Phe
Lys Gly Arg Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70 75Val Ser Thr Ala
Tyr Leu Gln Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85 90Thr Ala Val Tyr
Tyr Cys Glu Arg Glu Gly Gly Val Asn Asn Trp 95 100 105Gly Gln Gly
Thr Leu Val Thr Val Ser Ser 110 11525115PRTArtificial
sequenceVariable heavy chain domain of modified humanized
anti-Factor D Fab 238-7 25Gln Val Gln Leu Val Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu
Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser Val Lys Val Ser Cys Lys Ala
Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25 30Asn Tyr Gly Met Asn Trp Val Arg Gln
Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40 45Glu Trp Met Gly Trp Ile Asn Thr Tyr
Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55 60Ala Asp Asp Phe Lys Gly Arg Phe Val
Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70 75Val Ser Thr Ala Tyr Leu Gln Ile Ser
Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85 90Thr Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys Glu Arg Glu
Gly Gly Val Asn Asn Trp 95 100 105Gly Gln Gly Thr Leu Val Thr Val
Ser Ser 110 11526115PRTArtificial sequenceVariable heavy chain
domain of modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-8 26Gln Val Gln
Leu Val Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser
Val Lys Val Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25 30Asn Tyr
Gly Met Asn Trp Val Arg Gln Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40 45Glu Trp
Met Gly Trp Ile Asn Thr Tyr Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55 60Ala Asp
Asp Phe Lys Gly Arg Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70 75Val Ser
Thr Ala Tyr Leu Gln Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85 90Thr Ala
Val Tyr Tyr Cys Glu Arg Glu Gly Gly Val Ala Asn Trp 95 100 105Gly
Gln Gly Thr Leu Val Thr Val Ser Ser 110 11527115PRTArtificial
sequenceVariable heavy chain domain of modified humanized
anti-Factor D Fab 238-9 27Gln Val Gln Leu Val Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu
Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser Val Lys Val Ser Cys Lys Ala
Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25 30Asn Tyr Gly Met Asn Trp Val Arg Gln
Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40 45Glu Trp Met Gly Trp Ile Asn Thr Tyr
Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55 60Ala Asp Asp Phe Lys Gly Arg Phe Val
Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70 75Val Ser Thr Ala Tyr Leu Gln Ile Ser
Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85 90Thr Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys Glu Arg Glu
Gly Gly Val Gln Asn Trp 95 100 105Gly Gln Gly Thr Leu Val Thr Val
Ser Ser 110 11528115PRTArtificial sequenceVariable heavy chain
domain of modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-10 28Gln Val Gln
Leu Val Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser
Val Lys Val Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25 30Asn Tyr
Gly Met Asn Trp Val Arg Gln Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40 45Glu Trp
Met Gly Trp Ile Asn Thr Tyr Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55 60Ala Asp
Asp Phe Lys Gly Arg Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70 75Val Ser
Thr Ala Tyr Leu Gln Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85 90Thr Ala
Val Tyr Tyr Cys Glu Arg Glu Gly Gly Val Asn Ala Trp 95 100 105Gly
Gln Gly Thr Leu Val Thr Val Ser Ser 110 11529115PRTArtificial
sequenceVariable heavy chain doman of modified humanized
anti-Factor D Fab 238-11 29Gln Val Gln Leu Val Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu
Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser Val Lys Val Ser Cys Lys Ala
Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25 30Asn Tyr Gly Met Asn Trp Val Arg Gln
Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40 45Glu Trp Met Gly Trp Ile Asn Thr Tyr
Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55 60Ala Asp Asp Phe Lys Gly Arg Phe Val
Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70 75Val Ser Thr Ala Tyr Leu Gln Ile Ser
Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85 90Thr Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys Glu Arg Glu
Gly Gly Val Asn Gln Trp 95 100 105Gly Gln Gly Thr Leu Val Thr Val
Ser Ser 110 1153011PRTArtificial sequenceHVR-L1 of #111 and 238 to
238-1, 238-6 to 238- 11 30Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp Asp Asp Met
Asn 5 10 3111PRTArtificial sequenceHVR-L1 of modified humanized
anti-Factor D Fab 238-2 31Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp Asp Asp Leu
Asn 5 10 3211PRTArtificial sequenceHVR-L1 of modified humanized
anti-Factor D Fab 238-3 32Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp Asp Asp Ile
Asn 5 10 3311PRTArtificial sequenceHVR-L1 of modified humanized
anti-Factor D Fab 238-4 33Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp Asp Asp Met
Ala 5 10 3411PRTArtificial sequenceHVR-L1 of modified humanized
anti-Factor D Fab 238-5 34Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp Asp Asp Met
Gln 5 10 357PRTArtificial sequenceHVR-L2 of #111 and 238 to 238-5
and 238-8 to 238-11 35Gly Gly Asn Thr Leu Arg Pro 5
367PRTArtificial sequenceHVR-L2 of modified humanized anti-Factor D
Fab 238-6 36Gly Gly Ser Thr Leu Arg Pro 5 377PRTArtificial
sequenceHVR-L2 of modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-7 37Gly
Gly Ala Thr Leu Arg Pro 5 389PRTArtificial sequenceHVR-L3 of #111
and 238 to 238-11 38Leu Gln Ser Asp Ser Leu Pro Tyr Thr 5
3910PRTArtificial sequenceHVR-H1 of #111 and 238 to 238-11 39Gly
Tyr Thr Phe Thr Asn Tyr Gly Met Asn 5 104017PRTArtificial
sequenceHVR-H2 of #111 and 238 to 238-11 40Trp Ile Asn Thr Tyr Thr
Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr Ala Asp Asp Phe 1 5 10 15Lys
Gly416PRTArtificial sequenceHVR-H3 of #111 and 238 to 238-7 41Glu
Gly Gly Val Asn Asn 5 426PRTArtificial sequenceHVR-H3 of modified
humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-8 42Glu Gly Gly Val Ala Asn 5
436PRTArtificial sequenceHVR-H3 of modified humanized anti-Factor D
Fab 238-9 43Glu Gly Gly Val Gln Asn 5 446PRTArtificial
sequenceHVR-H3 of modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-10 44Glu
Gly Gly Val Asn Ala 5 456PRTArtificial sequenceHVR-H3 of modified
humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-11 45Glu Gly Gly Val Asn Gln 5
46714DNAArtificial sequenceLight chain domain of modified humanized
anti- Factor D Fab 238 46atgaagaaga atattgcgtt cctacttgcc
tctatgtttg tcttttctat 50agctacaaac gcgtatgctg atatccaggt gacccagtct
ccatcctccc 100tgtctgcatc tgtaggagac cgcgtcacca tcacttgcat
taccagcact 150gatattgatg atgatatgaa ctggtatcag cagaaaccag
ggaaagttcc 200taagctcctg atctctggag gcaatactct tcgtcctggg
gtcccatctc 250ggttcagtgg cagtggatct gggacagatt tcactctcac
catcagcagc 300ctgcagcctg aagatgttgc aacttattac tgtttgcaaa
gtgattcttt 350gccgtacacg tttggccagg gtaccaaggt ggagatcaaa
cgaactgtgg 400ctgcaccatc tgtcttcatc ttcccgccat ctgatgagca
gttgaaatct 450ggaactgctt ctgttgtgtg cctgctgaat aacttctatc
ccagagaggc 500caaagtacag tggaaggtgg ataacgccct ccaatcgggt
aactcccagg 550agagtgtcac agagcaggac agcaaggaca gcacctacag
cctcagcagc 600accctgacgc tgagcaaagc agactacgag aaacacaaag
tctacgcctg 650cgaagtcacc catcagggcc tgagctcgcc cgtcacaaag
agcttcaaca 700ggggagagtg ttaa 71447214PRTArtificial sequenceLight
chain domain of modified humanized anti- Factor D Fab 238 47Asp Ile
Gln Val Thr Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly
Asp Arg Val Thr Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25 30Asp
Asp Met Asn Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu
Leu Ile Ser Gly Gly Asn Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg
Phe Ser Gly Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser
Ser Leu Gln Pro Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85 90Ser
Asp Ser Leu Pro Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Val Glu 95 100
105Ile Lys Arg Thr Val Ala Ala Pro Ser Val Phe Ile Phe Pro Pro 110
115 120Ser Asp Glu Gln Leu Lys Ser Gly Thr Ala Ser Val Val Cys Leu
125 130 135Leu Asn Asn Phe Tyr Pro Arg Glu Ala Lys Val Gln Trp Lys
Val 140 145 150Asp Asn Ala Leu Gln Ser Gly Asn Ser Gln Glu Ser Val
Thr Glu 155 160 165Gln Asp Ser Lys Asp Ser Thr Tyr Ser Leu Ser Ser
Thr Leu Thr 170 175 180Leu Ser Lys Ala Asp Tyr Glu Lys His Lys Val
Tyr Ala Cys Glu 185 190 195Val Thr His Gln Gly Leu Ser Ser Pro Val
Thr Lys Ser Phe Asn 200 205 210Arg Gly Glu Cys4823PRTArtificial
sequenceFR1-LC of light chain domain of modified humanized
anti-Factor D Fab 238 48Asp Ile Gln Val Thr Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu
Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val Thr Ile Thr Cys 20
4915PRTArtificial sequenceFR2-LC of light chain domain of modified
humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238 49Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys
Val Pro Lys Leu Leu Ile Ser 1 5 10 155032PRTArtificial
sequenceFR3-LC of light chain domain of modified humanized
anti-Factor D Fab 238 50Gly Val Pro Ser Arg Phe Ser Gly Ser Gly Ser
Gly Thr Asp Phe 1 5 10 15Thr Leu Thr Ile Ser Ser Leu Gln Pro Glu
Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr 20 25 30Tyr Cys5110PRTArtificial sequenceFR4-LC
of light chain domain of modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238
51Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Val Glu Ile Lys 5 1052107PRTArtificial
sequenceCL1 of light chain domain of modified humanized anti-Factor
D Fab 238 to 238-1 52Arg Thr Val Ala Ala Pro Ser Val Phe Ile Phe
Pro Pro Ser Asp 1 5 10 15Glu Gln Leu Lys Ser Gly Thr Ala Ser Val
Val Cys Leu Leu Asn 20 25 30Asn Phe Tyr Pro Arg Glu Ala Lys Val Gln
Trp Lys Val Asp Asn 35 40 45Ala Leu Gln Ser Gly Asn Ser Gln Glu Ser
Val Thr Glu Gln Asp 50 55 60Ser Lys Asp Ser Thr Tyr Ser Leu Ser Ser
Thr Leu Thr Leu Ser 65 70 75Lys Ala Asp Tyr Glu Lys His Lys Val Tyr
Ala Cys Glu Val Thr 80 85 90His Gln Gly Leu Ser Ser Pro Val Thr Lys
Ser Phe Asn Arg Gly 95 100 105Glu Cys53741DNAArtificial
sequenceHeavy chain domain of modified humanized anti- Factor D Fab
238 53atgaaaaaga atatcgcatt tcttcttgca tctatgttcg ttttttctat
50tgctacaaac gcgtacgctc aggtccagct ggtgcaatct gggcctgagt
100tgaagaagcc tggggcctca gtgaaggttt cctgcaaggc ttctggatac
150accttcacta actatggaat gaactgggtg cgccaagccc ctggacaagg
200gcttgagtgg atgggatgga ttaacaccta cactggagag acaacatatg
250ctgatgactt caagggacgg tttgtcttct ccttggacac ctctgtcagc
300acggcatatc tgcagatcag cagcctcaag gctgaggaca ctgccgtgta
350ttactgtgag cgcgaggggg gggttaataa ctggggccaa gggaccctgg
400tcaccgtctc ctcagcctcc accaagggcc catcggtctt ccccctggca
450ccctcctcca agagcacctc tgggggcaca gcggccctgg gctgcctggt
500caaggactac ttccccgaac cggtgacggt gtcgtggaac tcaggcgccc
550tgaccagcgg cgtgcacacc ttcccggctg tcctacagtc ctcaggactc
600tactccctca gcagcgtggt gaccgtgccc tccagcagct tgggcaccca
650gacctacatc tgcaacgtga atcacaagcc cagcaacacc aaggtggaca
700agaaagttga gcccaaatct tgtgacaaaa ctcacacata a
74154223PRTArtificial sequenceHeavy chain domain of modified
humanized anti- Factor D Fab 238 54Gln Val Gln Leu Val Gln Ser Gly
Pro Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser Val Lys Val Ser Cys
Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25 30Asn Tyr Gly Met Asn Trp Val
Arg Gln Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40 45Glu Trp Met Gly Trp Ile Asn
Thr Tyr Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55 60Ala Asp Asp Phe Lys Gly Arg
Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70 75Val Ser Thr Ala Tyr Leu Gln
Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85 90Thr Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys Glu
Arg Glu Gly Gly Val Asn Asn Trp 95 100 105Gly Gln Gly Thr Leu Val
Thr Val Ser Ser Ala Ser Thr Lys Gly 110 115 120Pro Ser Val Phe Pro
Leu Ala Pro Ser Ser Lys Ser Thr Ser Gly 125 130 135Gly Thr Ala Ala
Leu Gly Cys Leu Val Lys Asp Tyr Phe Pro Glu 140 145 150Pro Val Thr
Val Ser Trp Asn Ser Gly Ala Leu Thr Ser Gly Val 155 160 165His Thr
Phe Pro Ala Val Leu Gln Ser Ser Gly Leu Tyr Ser Leu 170 175 180Ser
Ser Val
Val Thr Val Pro Ser Ser Ser Leu Gly Thr Gln Thr 185 190 195Tyr Ile
Cys Asn Val Asn His Lys Pro Ser Asn Thr Lys Val Asp 200 205 210Lys
Lys Val Glu Pro Lys Ser Cys Asp Lys Thr His Thr 215 220
5525PRTArtificial sequenceFR1-HC of heavy chain domain of modified
humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238 55Gln Val Gln Leu Val Gln Ser Gly
Pro Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser Val Lys Val Ser Cys
Lys Ala Ser 20 255614PRTArtificial sequenceFR2-HC of heavy chain
domain of modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238 56Trp Val Arg
Gln Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu Glu Trp Met Gly 5 10 5732PRTArtificial
sequenceFR3-HC of heavy chain domain of modified humanized
anti-Factor D Fab 238 57Arg Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser Val Ser
Thr Ala Tyr Leu 1 5 10 15Gln Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp Thr
Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys 20 25 30Glu Arg5811PRTArtificial sequenceFR4-HC
of heavy chain domain of modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238
58Trp Gly Gln Gly Thr Leu Val Thr Val Ser Ser 5 10
59108PRTArtificial sequenceCH1 of heavy chain domain of modified
humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238 to 238-1 59Ala Ser Thr Lys Gly Pro
Ser Val Phe Pro Leu Ala Pro Ser Ser 1 5 10 15Lys Ser Thr Ser Gly
Gly Thr Ala Ala Leu Gly Cys Leu Val Lys 20 25 30Asp Tyr Phe Pro Glu
Pro Val Thr Val Ser Trp Asn Ser Gly Ala 35 40 45Leu Thr Ser Gly Val
His Thr Phe Pro Ala Val Leu Gln Ser Ser 50 55 60Gly Leu Tyr Ser Leu
Ser Ser Val Val Thr Val Pro Ser Ser Ser 65 70 75Leu Gly Thr Gln Thr
Tyr Ile Cys Asn Val Asn His Lys Pro Ser 80 85 90Asn Thr Lys Val Asp
Lys Lys Val Glu Pro Lys Ser Cys Asp Lys 95 100 105Thr His
Thr60714DNAArtificial sequenceLight chain domain of modified
humanized anti- Factor D Fab 238-1 60atgaagaaga atattgcgtt
cctacttgcc tctatgtttg tcttttctat 50agctacaaac gcgtatgctg atatccaggt
gacccagtct ccatcctccc 100tgtctgcatc tgtaggagac cgcgtcacca
tcacttgcat taccagcact 150gatattgatg atgatatgaa ctggtatcag
cagaaaccag ggaaagttcc 200taagctcctg atctctggag gcaatactct
tcgtcctggg gtcccatctc 250ggttcagtgg cagtggatct gggacagatt
tcactctcac catcagcagc 300ctgcagcctg aagatgttgc aacttattac
tgtttgcaaa gtgattcttt 350gccgtacacg tttggccagg gtaccaaggt
ggagatcaaa cgaactgtgg 400ctgcaccatc tgtcttcatc ttcccgccat
ctgatgagca gttgaaatct 450ggaactgctt ctgttgtgtg cctgctgaat
aacttctatc ccagagaggc 500caaagtacag tggaaggtgg ataacgccct
ccaatcgggt aactcccagg 550agagtgtcac agagcaggac agcaaggaca
gcacctacag cctcagcagc 600accctgacgc tgagcaaagc agactacgag
aaacacaaag tctacgcctg 650cgaagtcacc catcagggcc tgagctcgcc
cgtcacaaag agcttcaaca 700ggggagagtg ttaa 71461214PRTArtificial
sequenceLight chain domain of modified humanized anti- Factor D Fab
238-1 61Asp Ile Gln Val Thr Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val
1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val Thr Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile
Asp 20 25 30Asp Asp Met Asn Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro
Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu Ile Ser Gly Gly Asn Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro
Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe Ser Gly Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr
Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser Leu Gln Pro Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu
Gln 80 85 90Ser Asp Ser Leu Pro Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Val
Glu 95 100 105Ile Lys Arg Thr Val Ala Ala Pro Ser Val Phe Ile Phe
Pro Pro 110 115 120Ser Asp Glu Gln Leu Lys Ser Gly Thr Ala Ser Val
Val Cys Leu 125 130 135Leu Asn Asn Phe Tyr Pro Arg Glu Ala Lys Val
Gln Trp Lys Val 140 145 150Asp Asn Ala Leu Gln Ser Gly Asn Ser Gln
Glu Ser Val Thr Glu 155 160 165Gln Asp Ser Lys Asp Ser Thr Tyr Ser
Leu Ser Ser Thr Leu Thr 170 175 180Leu Ser Lys Ala Asp Tyr Glu Lys
His Lys Val Tyr Ala Cys Glu 185 190 195Val Thr His Gln Gly Leu Ser
Ser Pro Val Thr Lys Ser Phe Asn 200 205 210Arg Gly Glu
Cys62741DNAArtificial sequenceHeavy chain domain of modified
humanized anti- Factor D Fab 238-1 62atgaaaaaga atatcgcatt
tcttcttgca tctatgttcg ttttttctat 50tgctacaaac gcgtacgctg aagtccagct
ggtgcaatct gggcctgagt 100tgaagaagcc tggggcctca gtgaaggttt
cctgcaaggc ttctggatac 150accttcacta actatggaat gaactgggtg
cgccaagccc ctggacaagg 200gcttgagtgg atgggatgga ttaacaccta
cactggagag acaacatatg 250ctgatgactt caagggacgg tttgtcttct
ccttggacac ctctgtcagc 300acggcatatc tgcagatcag cagcctcaag
gctgaggaca ctgccgtgta 350ttactgtgag cgcgaggggg gggttaataa
ctggggccaa gggaccctgg 400tcaccgtctc ctcagcctcc accaagggcc
catcggtctt ccccctggca 450ccctcctcca agagcacctc tgggggcaca
gcggccctgg gctgcctggt 500caaggactac ttccccgaac cggtgacggt
gtcgtggaac tcaggcgccc 550tgaccagcgg cgtgcacacc ttcccggctg
tcctacagtc ctcaggactc 600tactccctca gcagcgtggt gaccgtgccc
tccagcagct tgggcaccca 650gacctacatc tgcaacgtga atcacaagcc
cagcaacacc aaggtggaca 700agaaagttga gcccaaatct tgtgacaaaa
ctcacacata a 74163223PRTArtificial sequenceHeavy chain domain of
modified humanized anti- Factor D Fab 238-1 63Glu Val Gln Leu Val
Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser Val Lys
Val Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25 30Asn Tyr Gly Met
Asn Trp Val Arg Gln Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40 45Glu Trp Met Gly
Trp Ile Asn Thr Tyr Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55 60Ala Asp Asp Phe
Lys Gly Arg Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70 75Val Ser Thr Ala
Tyr Leu Gln Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85 90Thr Ala Val Tyr
Tyr Cys Glu Arg Glu Gly Gly Val Asn Asn Trp 95 100 105Gly Gln Gly
Thr Leu Val Thr Val Ser Ser Ala Ser Thr Lys Gly 110 115 120Pro Ser
Val Phe Pro Leu Ala Pro Ser Ser Lys Ser Thr Ser Gly 125 130 135Gly
Thr Ala Ala Leu Gly Cys Leu Val Lys Asp Tyr Phe Pro Glu 140 145
150Pro Val Thr Val Ser Trp Asn Ser Gly Ala Leu Thr Ser Gly Val 155
160 165His Thr Phe Pro Ala Val Leu Gln Ser Ser Gly Leu Tyr Ser Leu
170 175 180Ser Ser Val Val Thr Val Pro Ser Ser Ser Leu Gly Thr Gln
Thr 185 190 195Tyr Ile Cys Asn Val Asn His Lys Pro Ser Asn Thr Lys
Val Asp 200 205 210Lys Lys Val Glu Pro Lys Ser Cys Asp Lys Thr His
Thr 215 220 6425PRTArtificial sequenceFR1-HC of heavy chain domain
of modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab 238-1 64Glu Val Gln Leu Val
Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser Val Lys
Val Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser 20 2565107PRTArtificial sequenceVL Kappa I
consensus sequence 65Asp Ile Gln Met Thr Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu
Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp Arg Val Thr Ile Thr Cys Arg Ala
Ser Gln Gly Ile Ser 20 25 30Ser Tyr Leu Ala Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro
Gly Lys Ala Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu Ile Tyr Ala Ala Ser Ser Leu Gln
Ser Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe Ser Gly Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp
Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser Leu Gln Pro Glu Asp Phe Ala Thr
Tyr Tyr Cys Gln Gln 80 85 90Tyr Asn Ser Tyr Pro Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly
Thr Lys Val Glu Ile 95 100 105Lys Arg66109PRTArtificial sequenceVH7
subgroup VII consensus sequence 66Gln Val Gln Leu Val Gln Ser Gly
Ser Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser Val Lys Val Ser Cys
Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25 30Ser Tyr Ala Met Asn Trp Val
Arg Gln Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40 45Glu Trp Met Gly Trp Ile Asn
Thr Asn Thr Gly Asn Pro Thr Tyr 50 55 60Ala Gln Gly Phe Thr Gly Arg
Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70 75Val Ser Thr Ala Tyr Leu Gln
Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85 90Thr Ala Val Tyr Tyr Cys Ala
Arg Trp Gly Gln Gly Thr Ser Leu 95 100 105Thr Val Ser
Ser6737DNAArtificial sequenceSynthesized Oligonucleotide Primer for
pAEP1- 283 VL 67tttccctttg atatccaggt gacccagtct ccatcct
376842DNAArtificial sequenceSynthesized Oligonucleotide Primer for
pAEPI- 238-VL 68tttccctttg gtaccctggc caaacgtgta cggcaaagaa tc
426941DNAArtificial sequenceSynthesized Oligonucleotide Primer for
p238 69tttgggtttc gtacgctcag gtccagctgg tgcaatctgg g
417047DNAArtificial sequenceSynthesized Oligonucleotide Primer for
p238 70tttgggtttg ggcccttggt ggaggctgag gagacggtga ccagggt
477141DNAArtificial sequenceSynthesized Oligonucleotide Primer for
p238-1 71tttgggtttc gtacgctgaa gtccagctgg tgcaatctgg g
417247DNAArtificial sequenceSynthesized Oligonucleotide Primer for
p238-1 72tttgggtttg ggcccttggt ggaggctgag gagacggtga ccagggt
4773107PRTArtificial sequenceVariable light chain composite of
modified humanized anti-Factor D Fab clonesXaa33-34Unknown amino
acidXaa52Unknown amino acidXaa104Unknown amino acid 73Asp Ile Gln
Val Thr Gln Ser Pro Ser Ser Leu Ser Ala Ser Val 1 5 10 15Gly Asp
Arg Val Thr Ile Thr Cys Ile Thr Ser Thr Asp Ile Asp 20 25 30Asp Asp
Xaa Xaa Trp Tyr Gln Gln Lys Pro Gly Lys Val Pro Lys 35 40 45Leu Leu
Ile Ser Gly Gly Xaa Thr Leu Arg Pro Gly Val Pro Ser 50 55 60Arg Phe
Ser Gly Ser Gly Ser Gly Thr Asp Phe Thr Leu Thr Ile 65 70 75Ser Ser
Leu Gln Pro Glu Asp Val Ala Thr Tyr Tyr Cys Leu Gln 80 85 90Ser Asp
Ser Leu Pro Tyr Thr Phe Gly Gln Gly Thr Lys Xaa Glu 95 100 105Ile
Lys74115PRTArtificial sequenceVariable heavy chain composite of
modified humanized Anti-Factor D Fab ClonesXaa1Unknown amino
acidXaa103Unknown amino acidXaa104Unknown amino acid 74Xaa Val Gln
Leu Val Gln Ser Gly Pro Glu Leu Lys Lys Pro Gly 1 5 10 15Ala Ser
Val Lys Val Ser Cys Lys Ala Ser Gly Tyr Thr Phe Thr 20 25 30Asn Tyr
Gly Met Asn Trp Val Arg Gln Ala Pro Gly Gln Gly Leu 35 40 45Glu Trp
Met Gly Trp Ile Asn Thr Tyr Thr Gly Glu Thr Thr Tyr 50 55 60Ala Asp
Asp Phe Lys Gly Arg Phe Val Phe Ser Leu Asp Thr Ser 65 70 75Val Ser
Thr Ala Tyr Leu Gln Ile Ser Ser Leu Lys Ala Glu Asp 80 85 90Thr Ala
Val Tyr Tyr Cys Glu Arg Glu Gly Gly Val Xaa Xaa Trp 95 100 105Gly
Gln Gly Thr Leu Val Thr Val Ser Ser 110 115
* * * * *