Development of Anti-Glycan Antibodies Against Multi-Drug Resistant ESKAPE Wound Pathogens

Multi-drug resistant infections caused by ESKAPE pathogens pose a significant threat to wounded soldiers, complicating injuries and increasing the risk of morbidity and mortality. Conventional broad-spectrum antibiotics are ineffective against these highly resistant organisms, necessitating novel approaches. Glyphic and MIT, combining expertise in glycomics and antibody engineering, aimĀto develop a glycan-targeting monoclonal antibody for immediate protection against ESKAPE pathogens. This Phase I STTR will employ an integrated bioinformatics and analytical strategy to identify conserved microbial glycan antigens suitable for generating broadly reactive antibodies. Abundant, minimally variable surface glycans will be prioritized through homology mapping and empirically verified through LC-MS/MS and ELISA profiling. Immunogenic glycan constructs will be created by conjugating 3-5 lead antigens to carriers and formulating them with adjuvants. Chemical synthesis will produce high-purity glycans for optimal immunogenicity. Collaborations with contract labs will facilitate large-scale monoclonal antibody production, lead selection, and efficacy testing in subsequent phases. This research will yield optimized glycan antigens and immunization constructs, advancing monoclonal antibody discovery and efficacy validation. It will result in innovative immunotherapeutics for preventing infections and enhancing military force health protection and readiness, addressing the urgent need to combat highly resistant wound infections, as per the DHA's requirements.