Optimising Monoclonal Antibody Drug Development for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Despite the success of monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapies in treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a persistent therapeutic ceiling remains. This comprehensive review explores emerging strategies to enhance the efficacy of mAb-based treatments. Key among these is the development of bispecific antibodies designed to simultaneously engage two cytokine targets, offering dual blockade of inflammatory pathways and the potential for synergistic effects. Co-formulation approaches, comprising two or more mAbs within a single therapeutic product, are also examined as a means of broadening immunologic coverage and streamlining delivery. Finally, advances in pharmacokinetic optimisation are discussed, including Fc region modifications, polyethylene glycol conjugation, albumin fusion, and glycoengineering, all aimed at reducing immunogenicity and extending half-life. Together, these strategies represent a path toward next-generation biologics with the potential to minimise current limitations in IBD treatment.