Development and Characterization of a Novel Neuropilin-2 Antibody for Immunohistochemical Staining of Cancer and Sarcoidosis Tissue Samples

Neuropilin-2 (NRP2) is a cell surface receptor that plays key roles in lymphangiogenesis, but also in pathophysiological conditions such as cancer and inflammation. NRP2 targeting by efzofitimod, a novel immunomodulatory molecule, is currently being tested for the treatment of pulmonary sarcoidosis. To date, no anti-NRP2 antibodies are available for companion diagnostics. Here we describe the development and characterization of a novel NRP2 antibody. Using a variety of research techniques, that is, enzyme-linked immunoassay, Western blot, biolayer interferometry, and immunohistochemistry, we demonstrate that our antibody detects all major NRP2 isoforms and does not cross-react with NRP1. Using this antibody, we show high NRP2 expression in granulomas from sarcoidosis patient skin and lung biopsies. Our novel anti-NRP2 antibody could prove to be a useful clinical tool for sarcoidosis and other indications where NRP2 has been implicated. Clinical Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov NCT05415137.