Weigang Hu

Title: Weigang Hu: Innovator in Antibody Engineering

Introduction

Weigang Hu is a notable inventor based in Medicine Hat, Canada, recognized for his contributions to the field of antibody engineering. With a total of three patents to his name, Hu has made significant advancements in the development of recombinant antibodies that enhance immune responses.

Latest Patents

One of Hu's latest patents involves a fusion protein of the human IgG1 heavy chain constant region and a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) antibody against the equine encephalitis virus. This invention describes the construction of a recombinant gene fusion that confers human immune effector functions on murine antibodies. The recombinant antibody, after being expressed in bacteria as inclusion bodies, was purified and refolded in vitro. It retains high antigen-binding affinity to Venezuelan equine encephalitis (VEE) and exhibits some functions of the human IgG crystallizable fragment domain. Analysis through non-reducing gel electrophoresis confirmed disulfide bond formation in the hinge region, indicating that the recombinant antibody is in a native, functionally active form, providing a basis for further characterization of its efficacy in vivo.

Another significant patent by Hu focuses on the genetic engineering of a streptavidin-binding peptide tagged scFv antibody against VEE. This invention involves cloning a recombinant gene encoding the scFv antibody into a prokaryotic T7 RNA polymerase-regulated expression vector. A streptavidin-binding peptide sequence fused to a 6His tag is attached downstream of the scFv gene. The resulting recombinant fusion protein is expressed in bacteria and purified using immobilized metal affinity chromatography. ELISA and Western blotting results demonstrated that this fusion protein retains the antigen-binding and specificity properties of its parent native monoclonal antibody while also possessing streptavidin-binding activity. This innovation eliminates the need for chemical biotinylation of antibodies, reducing the risk of denaturation and providing a stable reagent for rapid immunoassays of VEE.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Weigang Hu has worked with esteemed organizations, including Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of National Defence. His work has significantly contributed to advancements in immunology and biotechnology.

Collaborations

Hu has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Leslie P. Nagata and R. Elaine Fulton,