Polybodies: Next-generation clinical antibodies

Conventional antibodies [full-length and fragments: F(ab')2, fragment antigen-binding (Fab), single-chain variable fragment (scFv), variable heavy domain of heavy chain (VHH)] are monospecific first-generation antibodies that have dominated the biopharmaceuticals field. However, advanced protein engineering technology has led to the advent of the next-generation polybody, which is a significant improvement over the conventional antibody. Polybodies comprise polyspecific and polyvalent antibodies that enable a single antibody to target multiple specific antigens simultaneously. Polybodies are superior to first-generation antibodies (more efficacious, broad-spectrum, resistance resistant, customizable, etc.) and provide a cost-effective healthcare solution. This review thoroughly addresses developments in polybodies, highlighting their superiority over conventional antibodies and offering future perspectives to encourage the generation of innovative immunotherapies.