Optimizing CAR Architecture with Fully Human VH Domains: Advancing Next-Generation CAR-T through HCAb Platforms

Please register the webinar via https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_deF67fx0T4GutjlsLgSoBw

Abstract:

CAR-T cell therapy has transformed the treatment landscape of hematological malignancies, yet its broader clinical application remains limited by immunogenicity, antigen escape, insufficient persistence, and the biological barriers of solid tumors.

This talk will provide a structured overview of CAR-T technology, beginning with the high-level architecture of CAR constructs and the evolutionary progression from first- to fifth-generation designs. FDA-approved CAR-T strategies and the limitations of conventional scFv-based antigen recognition domains in CAR engineering will be discussed. This talk will then introduce VH (single-domain antibodies) as an alternative antigen-binding modality for CAR design, highlighting structural and functional advantages in low immunogenicity, high diversity, and strong efficacy. Finally, this talk will present Nona Biosciences’ fully human HCAb platform, together with its CAR functional screening and TCE accelerating screening capabilities, and outline collaboration strategies that enable accelerated development of next-generation CAR-T and cell-based immunotherapies.

Speaker:

Jianing Li, Ph.D. is Director of Business Development at Nona Biosciences, a technology-centered antibody discovery organization. In her current role, she is responsible for strategic partnerships and works closely with scientific teams to align antibody discovery platforms and solutions with partner research needs. Her focus includes evaluating discovery strategies and supporting programs involving next-generation antibody modalities, such as CAR-based cell therapies, bi- or multispecific antibodies, ADCs, and mRNA LNP therapies.

Prior to joining Nona Biosciences, Jianing held multiple business development leadership roles at Biocytogen, where she and her team supported global biopharmaceutical partners across immuno-oncology, autoimmune, metabolic, and neurodegenerative disease programs.

Jianing received her Ph.D. from the University of Kentucky, with doctoral training in nutritional sciences and pharmacology. She subsequently completed her postdoctoral training at the Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, where her research focused on chronic cholestatic liver diseases.

Panelist:

Dr. Musheng Bao is currently Vice President, Head of Biology at Nona US Site. He received his Ph.D in China and did his postdoctoral training in MD Anderson Cancer Center and Baylor Institute for Immunology Research. Dr. Bao joined MedImmune and moved to Sanofi. After that, he joined Harbour BioMed/Nona Biosciences and led a team to focus on therapeutic antibody development based on Harbour Mice® platform.