Scientific projects

Technology

The immunotherapies developed by BioAZ are based on the engineering of VHH (Variable Heavy domain of Heavy chain). VHH are fragments of antibodies specific to camelids (llamas, alpacas, etc.) which bind to protein targets (antigens) with a very high specificity. VHHs are already used in therapy in humans. Two products are available in the European, American, and Japanese markets.

What is a VHH?

Advantages of VHH

Targeting

• Very strong and very specific binding to the target inducing rapid action (vs. classic IgG)

• Can bind hidden epitopes

DMPK
(Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics)

• Ability to pass the blood-brain barrier (vs. IgG)

• Strong penetration into tissues

• Less immunogenic (vs. IgG)

• Possible engineering to increase the lifespan and integration into vectors

• Biodegraded into amino acids

Production

• A single protein (a single gene) can be produced in bacteria or yeast at lower costs with high yields and purity

• Reduced development times

Formulation

• Good solubility

• Excellent stability, including in hostile environments (pH, T°, proteases)

• Can be administered orally for local effect

Pipeline

Piglet immunocastration project

In non-castrated male pigs (entire males), hormones produced by the testicles are responsible for the “boar taint.” This unpleasant smell of the meat is detected while cooking and makes the meat unsuitable for consumption.

To prevent the “boar taint,” male piglets are castrated at birth in most countries around the world. This procedure is performed live (without relieving the pain) except in certain European countries: France, Germany, Denmark and the Netherlands. Since 2022, these states have banned this practice that generates animal suffering: the law requires breeders to practice castration with anesthesia and analgesia.

However, the implementation of anesthesia/analgesia is not only technical but also pricey in terms of products and labor. This additional burden is borne by the breeders. It is therefore necessary to offer them an alternative. In addition, an ethical and economic option is desired to put a definitive end to live castration within the still too numerous countries where this practice is still allowed.

Boar taint mechanism

To meet these expectations, BioAZ has designed and is developing an immunotherapy in a painless injection. The patented technology, BioCas001, is based on VHH engineering. It aims to block GnRH in order to induce biological castration and prevent the appearance of boar taint.

Mechanism of action of BioCas001

Future ambitions

Driven by its desire to contribute to the agroecological transition and animal welfare, BioAZ aims, among other things, to develop alternatives to antibiotics for animals.