Novel strategies in systemic and local administration of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies
Monika Prašnikar, Maja Bjelošević Žiberna, Mirjam Gosenca Matjaž, Pegi Ahlin Grabnar
Abstract
• Subcutaneous administration of mAb drugs is expanding being more patient-friendly. • Stability of mAb and viscosity restrict subcutaneous formulation development. • Local treatment with mAb drugs is currently limited to intravitreal administration. • Authors assess nasal administration as the most promising for mAbs local delivery. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are an evolving class of biopharmaceuticals, with advancements evident across various stages of their development. While discovery, mAb chemical optimization, production and purification processes have been thoroughly reviewed, this paper aims to offer a summary of novel strategies in administration of mAbs. At present, systemic delivery of mAbs is available through parenteral administration routes with focus on subcutaneous administration. In addition, oriented toward patient-friendly therapy, other less invasive administration routes of mAbs, such as inhalation, nasal, transdermal, and oral administration, are explored. Literature data reveals the potential for local delivery of mAbs via inhalation, nasal, transdermal, intratumoral, intravitreal and vaginal administration, offering high efficacy with fewer systemic adverse effects. However, to date, only mAb medicines are available for intravitreal administration, mainly due to higher bioavailability, and an intranasal spray is authorised as a medical device. The review highlights the promising data in approval of novel administration routes, likely through inhalation, but further intensive research considering the current obstacles, is essential.