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A First-in-Class Approach to FcRn
Empasiprubart (formerly ARGX-117) is designed to be a humanized sweeping antibody that binds specifically to C2 in a pH- and Ca2+-dependent manner. C2 is a protein in the complement cascade that, when activated, leads to cell destruction. Binding of empasiprubart is intended to inhibit the function of C2 and downstream complement activation.
By blocking complement activity, empasiprubart has the potential to reduce tissue inflammation and the adaptive immune response. Through this proposed mechanism, empasiprubart could represent a broad pipeline opportunity across severe autoimmune indications.
Current argenx Pipeline Progress
No results
Mechanism of Action
Empasiprubart is a novel, humanized, IgG1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) that binds to C2, thereby blocking downstream activation of both the classical and lectin complement pathways, while leaving the alternative pathway intact. Empasiprubart binds to C2 in a pH- and calcium-dependent manner and is engineered for increased affinity to FcRn to achieve a prolonged half-life.
- Empasiprubart binds to C2 in circulation before being internalized into the cell
- C2 is released in the endosome
- Empasiprubart binds to FcRn
- Unbound C2 is degraded in the lysosome
- Empasiprubart escapes lysosomal degradation and is recycled back into circulation
Publications
Explore the peer-reviewed publications behind the clinical development and outcomes of empasiprubart and more in long-overlooked diseases.
Explore More
At argenx, every piece of the innovation story connects. See where it leads next.
ARGX-118
Designed around the first novel airway inflammation target identified in decades.
Efgartigimod
The science and data behind our first-in-class FcRn-targeting antibody for long-overlooked diseases.
Partnered Program Success
See how IIP-born assets move forward with the right partners.
