ANIMAL-FREE ANTIBODIES - Reshaping biological research by recapitulating antibody generation in yeast (AFab)

Antibodies are indispensable in all fields of biological research. However, the existing methods for developing custom antibodies are still costly, time-consuming, poorly reproducible, and most importantly, not applicable to all antigens. To address this challenge, we will create a novel, disruptive technology for the development of DNA-encoded custom antibodies in yeast. We will recapitulate the mechanism of natural antibody generation by harnessing the power of CRISPR-based continuous in vivo mutagenesis for the maturation of synthetic antibody libraries in yeast cells. In this project, we will establish a novel enabling technology that will have a profound effect on biological research and biotechnology. This technology will expand the range of antibodies available for numerous applications and bring affordable custom antibodies within the reach of any academic or industrial researcher.