Scientists have pioneered new tech to accelerate antibody medication infusions

Stanford University researchers, led by Eric Appel, have developed a groundbreaking method for the rapid administration of antibody drugs. This new technique could potentially revolutionise patient care and outcomes by making treatments more accessible, convenient, and efficient.

Antibody drugs are typically administered via slow intravenous drips, a time-consuming process that requires medical supervision. However, the new method allows for injections at more than twice the concentration of conventional fluids for albumin, human immunoglobulin, and a monoclonal antibody for COVID-19.

The secret to this innovation lies in the encapsulation of proteins in tiny particles, which are then coated with a polymer called MONI. This coating keeps the proteins stable, dry, and prevents clumping, allowing for high-concentration injections without compromising their effectiveness.

Eric Appel suggests that the new method could make treatments more accessible by reducing the need for time-consuming infusions. The technique could potentially enable self-administration of treatments at home, increasing convenience for patients.

The potential applications of this new method extend beyond antibody drugs. It could be used for various biologic drugs, potentially speeding up treatment administration and delivering treatments that once took hours in a clinic in seconds via a syringe or auto-injector at home.

This new method is likened to "candy-coated chocolate," with the protein inside and a protective glassy layer outside. The researchers believe that this method could have significant implications for patient care and outcomes, making treatments more efficient and accessible for all.