Translational Immunogenicity – What you need to know
Much of modern scientific medicine has been created through pre-clinical models that have been successfully translated into humans. With regards to immunogenicity, translating that from animal to human models is not always so simple. It is quite widely accepted that the data gained in immunogenic animal models does not translate into humans, but the critical question of translation of immunogenic safety events is still unanswered.
With safety at the forefront of any researchers mind, the appropriateness of research models in predicting safety is key. Immunology is so complex, involving thousands of different variations of different molecules that can interact in millions of ways to an infinite number of stimuli. Modelling that in different animal species is hard enough.
The potential if the safety is not properly modelled for could be catastrophic. The events in Northwick Park in 2006 highlight the severity of ill-informed safety measures with immune-modulating therapies.
Animal models provide the opportunity to avoid these complications in humans, if the events in animals translate to humans. No doubt this conference on Singapore will shed some light and provide guidance for the researchers working in this complex minefield
