# DIRECTED DISCOVERY AND VALIDATION OF ANTI-SPLICE-JUNCTION SITE Abs

> **NIH NIH R44** · ABBRATECH, INC. · 2024 · $205,926

## Abstract

Abstract
This Fast Track proposal's overarching goal is to develop a comprehensive platform for the
identification and validation of recombinant antibodies (Abs) that are specific to protein isoform
splice-junction sites. This initiative addresses key challenges in the protein-level characterization of
splice variants, which is a critical area in understanding and treating diseases related to alternative
splicing of proteins. The project introduces an innovative "Epivolve" phage display technology,
utilizing a “pseudo-haptenylated” amino acid to generate site-directed Abs against these splice
variants. The initial phase of the project, Phase I, will focus on validating the several existing splice-
site specific Abs through methods such as western blotting and flow cytometry, with a vision to
expand applications in future offerings. And the use of Epivolve to generate Abs de novo from phage
display libraries to the same sites as a proof of concept. This strategy is significant as alternative
splicing is known to contribute to the malignant progression of cancer, highlighting the potential
impact of this research in oncology. Phase II of the proposal takes the project further by producing
display libraries in a novel vector system that combines phage- and yeast display technologies. A
key aspect of this phase is the targeted effort to identify potential neoantigens near the amino
terminus of G-protein-coupled receptors, a potentially promising area in cancer research.
Additionally, the proposal outlines a commercialization strategy, reflecting the project's progression
towards practical applications. The final step in this strategy involves scaling up the production of
these site-directed Abs and continuing their validation. This phase is crucial to ensure the
effectiveness and reliability of the Abs for broader use, potentially revolutionizing the approach to
diagnosing and treating diseases related to protein splicing.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11013261
- **Project number:** 1R44GM156476-01
- **Recipient organization:** ABBRATECH, INC.
- **Principal Investigator:** Michael P Weiner
- **Activity code:** R44 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $205,926
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-09-20 → 2025-07-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11013261

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11013261, DIRECTED DISCOVERY AND VALIDATION OF ANTI-SPLICE-JUNCTION SITE Abs (1R44GM156476-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11013261. Licensed CC0.

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