The Chain: Protein Engineering Podcast Episode: 80 - Vibha Jawa Discusses the Impact of Biologic Molecules and the Future of Immunogenicity
Dec 9, 2025
Vibha Jawa, a seasoned biopharmaceutical scientist and immunology leader, shares her insights on biologic molecules and immunogenicity. She discusses the potential of BiTEs and pegylated molecules in cancer treatment, along with her rewarding role in creating N-Plate at Amgen. Vibha predicts the rise of gene therapies and AI-designed molecules in the next decade. She emphasizes hands-on research and collaboration for the next generation of scientists, providing valuable advice on navigating the evolving landscape of immunogenicity.
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Early Career Win With A Rare-Disease Drug
- Vibha Jawa recounts leading work on a fusion 'peptibody' at Amgen destined for a rare bleeding disorder population.
- The drug (AMG-531, later Nplate) overcame immunogenicity concerns and gained approval after close FDA scrutiny.
T-Cell Engagement Elevates Immunogenicity
- Bispecific T-cell engagers look foreign to the immune system and can act like 'Frankenstein molecules' that raise immune responses.
- T-cell engagement itself amplifies antibody responses, so incidence rises but clinical relevance varies.
BiTE Development Hindered By High ADA Rates
- Rakesh Dixit and Vibha Jawa discuss a CEA‑BiTE program that produced very high anti-drug antibody rates.
- Those ADAs reduced drug levels and prevented T-cell tumor infiltration, harming efficacy.