Robert F Balint

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Robert F. Balint

Introduction

Robert F. Balint is a notable inventor based in Palo Alto, California. He has made significant contributions to the field of molecular interactions, particularly through his innovative patents. With a total of 6 patents, Balint's work has advanced the understanding of protein-protein interactions and antibody specificity.

Latest Patents

One of Balint's latest patents is titled "Detection of molecular interactions by β-lactamase reporter fragment complementation." This invention provides methods and compositions for detecting molecular interactions, particularly protein-protein interactions, using at least two inactive, weakly-complementing β-lactamase fragments. The invention allows for the detection of such interactions in eukaryotic and mammalian cells, whether in situ or in vitro. Notably, the detection of molecular interactions in mammalian cells is not limited to the nuclear compartment but can also occur in the cytoplasm, cell surface, organelles, or between these entities. The methods utilize novel compositions comprising fusion proteins between molecules of interest and inactive, weakly-complementing β-lactamase fragments. The association of the molecules of interest brings the corresponding complementary β-lactamase fragments into close proximity, enabling complementation and observable β-lactamase activity. This invention is particularly useful in the study of protein-protein interactions, functional genomics, agonist and antagonist screening, and drug discovery.

Another significant patent by Balint is "Antibody specificity transfer using minimal essential binding determinants." This invention provides methods for creating antibodies that possess the binding specificity of a reference antibody. The antibodies generated through these methods include at least one minimal essential binding specificity determinant from a heavy chain or light chain CDR3 of the reference antibody. This method can be applied in humanization procedures and also provides libraries and antibodies made in accordance with the methods.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Robert F. Balint has worked with various companies, including Kalobios Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Kalobios, Inc. His work in these organizations has contributed to the advancement of biopharmaceuticals and molecular biology.

Collaborations

Balint has collaborated with notable individuals in his field, including Jeng-Horng Her and Peter Flynn. These collaborations have further enriched his research and innovations.

Conclusion

Robert F. Balint