Bispecific Antibody Market Trends

Growth Drivers

• Widening pipeline and indications: The rising research and development is escalating the efficacy of the products from the market. The enhanced therapeutic benefits of these therapies compared to traditional medications are further encouraging pioneers to explore more disease categories beyond oncology. On this note, a study published by NLM in June 2024 revealed a notable decline in multidrug-resistant rheumatoid arthritis with the use of bispecific T cell engager (BiTE), blinatumomab. It further indicated improved synovitis in ultrasound and FAPI-PET-CT and reduced autoantibodies with no signs of clinically relevant cytokine-release syndrome. Similarly, lupus, HIV, and COVID-19 are also being tested for such positive response.

• Significant advances in protein engineering: Technological advancements in binding the two different proteins enables the ability for modulation of protein-protein interactions, opening new possibilities for therapeutic interventions and functional kinetics of BsAbs medications. In this regard, in January 2024, WuXi Biologics gained approval for the patent application for its highly flexible bispecific antibody engineering platform, WuXiBody, from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. 

Challenges

• Financial hurdles in drug development: The initial stage of crafting related medicines involve extensive research and discovery efforts, including target identification, compound screening, and preclinical testing. These activities require significant investment in scientific expertise, laboratory facilities, and equipment. This may become expensive for new entrants, discouraging them in further operations. Thus, high R&D costs, which account for a substantial portion of the overall expenses in drug development, limits engagement in the market. Additionally, the inadequate supply and economic barrier in access to advanced healthcare may restrict worldwide adoption of these sector’s offerings.