#United States #Generative AI #Cambridge #Harbour BioMed #HCAb Model

Harbour BioMed Launches State-of-the-Art AI HCAb Model

In a significant advancement in the field of biopharmaceuticals, Harbour BioMed has announced the launch of its first fully human Generative AI Heavy Chain-Only Antibody (HCAb) model. This breakthrough is made possible by the company's proprietary Hu-mAtrIx™ AI platform, developed as part of the Harbour Mice® platform, and is aimed at accelerating the discovery of next-generation biologics. The unveiling took place during the Global RD Day 2025 event held in Shanghai, where the company also introduced the Global AI + Pharmaceutical Ecosystem Alliance, which consists of professionals from various sectors focused on leveraging AI technologies in drug research and development.

A Closed-Loop Process for Antibody Discovery

Harbour BioMed's AI HCAb model is a key innovation designed to streamline the traditional antibody discovery process. It incorporates an end-to-end workflow that integrates AI-assisted sequence generation, advanced screening techniques, and thorough wet-lab validation. This approach replaces the conventional trial-and-error methods with intelligent AI-driven selections that enhance efficiency and precision during the discovery phase.

The model is based on the challenges faced with conventional human variable heavy (VH) domains, which tend to be unstable without variable light (VL) chain pairing. Thanks to the Harbour Mice® platform—recognized globally as the first transgenic mouse system capable of producing fully human functional HCAbs—the foundation for this groundbreaking AI model was laid. The AI leverages an extensive dataset of 9 million next-generation sequencing (NGS) HCAb sequences, ensuring that it can effectively discern functional HCAbs within complex datasets.

Advances in Candidate Generation and Binding Success

The performance of the newly released AI HCAb model is remarkable. It reported a tenfold increase in candidate generation coupled with significantly higher binding success rates. Out of 107 new binder sequences produced, a striking 78.5% successfully interacted with targets, resulting in 20 molecules that continued to excel during wet-lab validations. These molecules demonstrated impressive activity levels and binding affinities, with several reaching nanomolar levels against targets relevant to both human and cynomolgus monkey studies.

The AI-generated candidates are not only diverse but also lead to high yields averaging over 700 mg/L, showcasing their suitability for further development and potential therapeutic applications. By employing sophisticated AI classification and multimodal prediction models, Harbour BioMed enhances the identification and validation of high-potential candidates for various therapeutic needs, including bispecific antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), CAR-T therapies, and transformative mRNA treatments.

Continuous Learning and Future Directions

Harbour BioMed's AI platform sets itself apart by functioning as a self-evolving system. It incorporates feedback loops that integrate automated validation and re-learning, enabling a dynamic approach to discovery. This adaptability allows the model to continually innovate, creating new, diverse molecules while rapidly processing experimental feedback to refine its predictions and augment research and development efficiencies.

The ultimate ambition behind the development of the AI HCAb model is to streamline the creation and application of fully human HCAbs, paving the way for groundbreaking therapeutics across a range of advanced treatment areas. This includes multi-specific antibodies, immune cell engagers, inhalable or oral large-molecule drugs, and much more, ultimately re-defining the paradigm of biologics discovery.

The Formation of the Global AI + Pharmaceutical Ecosystem Alliance

Coinciding with the model launch was the formal establishment of the Global AI + Pharmaceutical Ecosystem Alliance. This coalition unites prominent industry players, technology innovators, and investors committed to transforming the drug discovery landscape through collaborative efforts in AI. The initiative has garnered express support from numerous government entities, industry associations, and venture capitals aiming to facilitate value-sharing and joint problem-solving in the quest for innovative therapies.

Dr. Jingsong Wang, Harbour BioMed's Founder, Chairman, and CEO, highlighted the alliance's resolve to create a collaborative ecosystem focused on overcoming the intricate challenges of drug discovery. By harnessing shared knowledge and resources, the alliance is set to expedite the development of transformative therapies, ensuring that advanced treatments reach patients in a timely manner.

About Harbour BioMed

Headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and with operations in Rotterdam and Shanghai, Harbour BioMed (HKEX: 02142) remains at the forefront of biopharmaceutical innovation. The company specializes in discovering and developing novel antibody therapeutics, mainly for immunology and oncology. Its sophisticated Harbour Mice® platform enables the generation of fully human monoclonal antibodies, including both traditional and HCAb formats, setting the stage for next-generation therapeutic advancements. For further details, visit www.harbourbiomed.com.