In recent years, a number of bi- or multi-domain immune cell engaging modalities have been developed that enable the immune-mediated depletion of target cells to provide benefit in diseases like cancer.  

These modalities are now increasingly used in other areas, e.g. infection or autoimmunity, to remove cells that drive disease pathology. Still, new cell engager formats are being sought to improve the effectiveness of target cell depletion and optimise general drug properties.  

Given the variety of immune cells and cell engager formats available, it is crucial to have preclinical model systems that are capable of differentiating construct designs, based on depth and duration of efficacy, and highlight any toxicity flags such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS). It is of vital importance that any differences in efficacy observed can translate into human biology.  

While such model systems have been established in oncology, they are not readily available in autoimmune research, and we are therefore seeking to either identify such a model or establish contacts with experts that can assist us in building one. 

While our primary focus is developing a preclinical model to evaluate cell engaging modalities for autoimmune disease, we also welcome suggestions by potential collaborators on novel cell engager designs (particularly those that lead to improved activity in tissue).