Location History:
- Somerville, MA (US) (1989 - 1999)
- Waukesha, WI (US) (2009)
- Urbana, IL (US) (2018 - 2019)
- Champaign, IL (US) (1996 - 2022)
Company Filing History:
13 out of 2,341 
7 out of 8,370 
1 out of 5,307 
Years Active: 1989-2025
Title: David M. Kranz: Innovator in T Cell Receptor Engineering
Introduction
David M. Kranz is a prominent inventor based in Champaign, Illinois, who has made significant contributions to the field of immunology through his innovative work on T cell receptors. With a remarkable portfolio consisting of 22 patents, Kranz's inventions focus on engineering T cell receptors for improved specificity and functionality in therapeutic applications.
Latest Patents
Among David M. Kranz's latest patents is the invention related to engineering T cell receptors. This patent outlines a method for using model T cell receptors (TCRs) as scaffolds to create novel specificities in vitro. The innovative process involves mutagenizing a TCR protein coding sequence to generate a diverse population of mutants, which can then be selectively modified to bind to specific peptide-major histocompatibility complex (MHC) ligands. This directed evolution approach enables the identification of TCR variants with enhanced affinity for desired targets.
Another noteworthy patent is the development of soluble human single-chain T cell receptors (scTCR). The patented scTCR structure, featuring a linker peptide that connects the TCR variable regions, holds potential for treating a variety of conditions, including cancer, viral diseases, and autoimmune disorders.
Career Highlights
David M. Kranz has had a distinguished career, holding positions at renowned institutions such as the University of Illinois and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His role in advancing the understanding and engineering of T cell receptors has placed him at the forefront of immunological research and innovation.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Kranz has collaborated with other notable scientists, including K. Dane Wittrup and Eric T. Boder. These partnerships have fostered significant advancements in the field, as they bring together diverse expertise and perspectives in research and development.
Conclusion
David M. Kranz's inventive contributions in T cell receptor engineering not only highlight his capabilities as an inventor but also illustrate his commitment to advancing medical science. With a strong patent portfolio and collaborations with leading researchers, Kranz continues to play a pivotal role in the field, paving the way for new therapeutic strategies that could transform patient care in immunology.
Inventor’s Patent Attorneys refers to legal professionals with specialized expertise in representing inventors throughout the patent process. These attorneys assist inventors in navigating the complexities of patent law, including filing patent applications, conducting patent searches, and protecting intellectual property rights. They play a crucial role in helping inventors secure patents for their innovative creations.