BR112016020613B1 - SPECIFIC ANTIBODIES FOR INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTOR RECEPTOR TYPE 1 AND THEIR USE - Google Patents

Abstract

TYPE 1 INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTOR RECEPTOR SPECIFIC ANTIBODIES AND THEIR USE. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) prevents the transport of molecules larger than 500 Daltons from the blood to the brain. Receptor-mediated transcytosis (RMT) facilitates transport across the BBB of specific molecules that bind to receptors on brain endothelial cells that form the BBB. An Insulin-like growth factor receptor-1 (IGF1R) binding antibody or fragment thereof is identified that transmigrates to the BBB by RMT. The antibody or fragment is used to deliver a cargo molecule across the BBB, where the cargo molecule can be a therapeutic or a detectable agent. The antibody is a camelid VHH, prepared by immunizing a llama with a 933 amino acid IGF1R polypeptide. Humanized forms of the camelid VHH are also generated.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[001] The present invention relates to antibodies specific for Insulin-Like Growth Factor Receptor type 1, fragments thereof and uses thereof. More specifically, the present invention relates to Insulin-Like Growth Factor Receptor type 1-specific antibodies and fragments thereof that transmigrate the blood-brain barrier and uses thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[002] Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, are an increasing burden on an aging society because there is currently no effective treatment for these disabling conditions. Treatment as well as early diagnosis of these and other diseases that originate in the brain remain challenging because most suitable diagnostic and therapeutic molecules cannot penetrate the narrow and highly restrictive blood-brain barrier (BBB) (Abbott, 2013). The BBB constitutes a physical barrier that is formed by brain endothelial cells (BECs) that line the blood vessels and connect to each other through tight junctions (Abbott, 2013). The tight junctions formed between BECs are essential for the integrity of the BBB and prevent the paracellular transport of molecules greater than 500 daltons (Da). Because brain endothelial cells exhibit very low rates of pinocytosis (Abbott, 2013), transcellular transport of larger molecules is limited to the highly specific receptor-mediated (RMT) transcytosis pathway and passive charge-based adsorption-mediated transcytosis (Abbott , 2013; Pardridge, 2002). Additionally, the high density of efflux pumps, such as P-glycoprotein or multidrug resistance protein-1 (MDR-1), contributes to the removal of unwanted substances from the brain (Abbott, 2013).

[003] While all these features protect the brain from pathogens and toxins, they also prevent the entry of most therapeutic products. In reality, less than 5% of small molecule therapeutics and virtually none of the larger therapeutics can cross the BBB at pharmacologically relevant concentrations (i.e., sufficient to engage a central nervous system (CNS) target and elicit pharmacologic/ therapeutic) unless they are specifically "transported", i.e., coupled to a carrier molecule. Due to the lack of effective “carriers” to transport molecules across the BBB, numerous drugs against neurodegenerative diseases have been “shelved” or eliminated from further development as they cannot be delivered to the brain in sufficient quantity.

[004] Different approaches to delivering larger molecules to the brain were explored. For example, the integrity of the BBB can be disrupted, resulting in a leaky BBB which, in turn, allows unrestricted paracellular entry of larger molecules into the brain. Tight joints can be successfully loosened or broken by several approaches. For example, injection of substances that induce osmotic shock (eg, mannitol, hypertonic solutions) into the blood stream causes cell shrinkage and results in disruption of tight junctions, thus severely compromising the BBB (Guillaume, 2010). Other tight junction modulators include alkylglycerols, bradykinin, and various analogues thereof, as well as viruses that modulate the expression of proteins involved in tight junction maintenance (Erdlenbruch et al., 2003; Preston et al., 2008; Gan et al., 2013). A more localized disruption of the BBB is possible through the application of ultrasound (Nhan et al., 2013). However, these periods during which the BBB is disrupted are sufficient to alter brain homeostasis and allow harmful chemicals, toxins, and pathogens to enter the brain; this can result in serious side effects, for example seizures or swelling of the brain, infection and possibly permanent neuropathological changes. As would be evident to those skilled in the art, repeated treatments with these technologies for chronic and diffuse brain diseases that affect multiple brain regions are not practical. Most of these treatments are costly, require hospitalization, and some approaches require anesthesia.

[005] Another approach to bypassing the BBB is the direct injection of therapeutic molecules into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), parenchymal space, or other parts of the brain. Several delivery methods have been developed, including: intracerebral (intraparenchymal), intraventricular, and intrathecal delivery via infusion or convection-enhanced diffusion (CED) pumps. However, any type of direct injection into the brain or intracerebral implant is an invasive and costly procedure, as it requires hospitalization, anesthesia and often surgery. Furthermore, poor diffusion rates of therapeutics, particularly larger biologies, within the brain parenchyma limit penetration of therapeutics to only small areas surrounding the injection/implantation site. Correct placement of injections, catheters and implants is challenging but crucial to achieving drug diffusion to the targeted region of the brain. Additionally, catheters and implants provide a site for infection and/or an immune response against foreign material.

[006] In another attempt to increase delivery across the BBB, CNS drugs have been modified to enhance cerebral uptake. Such modifications can include a change in their surface charge, a reduction in molecule size and alteration to the lipophilicity of drugs. However, any modifications to increase brain penetration are also likely to alter the overall pharmacology of the drug, including its desired activity and/or specificity. Additionally, lipophilic molecules are more likely to be exported from the brain via the P-glycoprotein efflux pump.

[007] Finally, endogenous transport mechanisms across the BBB were explored. The physiological mechanisms that allow the transport of large molecules across the BBB can be divided into highly specific receptor-mediated transcytosis (RMT) and adsorptive-mediated endocytosis pathways based on non-specific charge. Endocytosis is activated by binding of the specific ligand to its receptor or by electrostatic interaction between the cationic ligand or drug and the anionic functional groups on the brain endothelial cell surface (luminal side), respectively. Subsequently, the newly formed endosome is transcytosed through the cell to the abluminal side to release its cargo.

[008] As adsorptive mediated transcytosis is a non-specific charge-mediated interaction, it occurs in all organs and vascular beds, limiting drug availability for delivery to the brain. Therefore, exploiting the RMT trajectory remains the only non-invasive yet highly receptor-specific physiologic brain delivery method.

[009] Only a few receptors are currently known to undergo RMT in the BBB and “transport” via their natural ligands: the well-studied transferrin receptor (TfR), the insulin receptor (IR), the lipoprotein receptor-related proteins low-density 1 and 2 (LRP-1 and -2), diphtheria toxin receptor and TMEM30A. Peptides, natural ligands, and antibodies or antibody fragments have been developed that bind to these receptors (Pardridge et al., 1991; Yu et al., 2011; Muruganandam et al., 2001; Abulrob et al., 2005; Demeule, 2008 ; Sumbria et al., 2013), functioning as drug carriers to the brain using endogenous RMT pathways. However, to date, only a single peptide (Angiopep ANG1005, targeting LRP-1) has been analyzed in phase I clinical studies, although other candidates are being studied in laboratory settings. The RMT pathway appears to be the most promising pathway for drug delivery to the brain, but current approaches have limitations, including: non-selective expression of the target receptor on the BBB, competition between the carrier and natural ligands to the receptor, ineffective transcytosis of a receptor as well as lysosomal degradation of endocytosed carriers (Xiao and Gun, 2013).

[010] The lack of high capacity and high selectivity BBB carriers delays the development of new therapeutic and diagnostic products for diseases that originate in the brain, including brain tumors and neurodegenerative diseases. There is clearly a need for a non-invasive method to deliver small and large diagnostic and therapeutic molecules in pharmacologically effective doses to the brain without disturbing the physiology and homeostasis of the BBB.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[011] The present invention relates to antibodies specific for Insulin-Like Growth Factor Receptor type 1 (IGF1R) and uses thereof. More specifically, the present invention relates to Insulin-Like Growth Factor Receptor type 1-specific antibodies and fragments thereof that transmigrate the blood-brain barrier and uses thereof.

[012] The present invention provides isolated or purified antibodies or fragments thereof that specifically bind to an Insulin-Like Growth Factor Receptor type 1 (IGF1R) epitope in which the antibody or fragment thereof transmigrates the blood-brain barrier, and wherein the epitope is specifically bound by the antibody of SEQ ID NO:5. The IGF1R epitope can be in the extracellular domain of IGF1R.

[013] The present invention provides isolated or purified antibodies or fragments thereof comprising: an EYPSNFYA complementarity determining region (CDR) 1 sequence (SEQ ID NO:1); a CDR2 sequence from VSRDGLTT (SEQ ID NO:2); and a CDR3 sequence from AIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHY (SEQ ID NO:3), wherein the antibody or fragment thereof specifically binds Insulin-Like Growth Factor Receptor 1 (IGF1R).

[014] For example, and without being limiting in any way, the isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof specific for IGF1R can be X1VX2LX3ESGGGLVQX4GGSLRLSCX5ASEYPSNFYAMSWX6RQAPGKX7 X8EX9VX10GVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTX11SRDNX12KNTX13X14LQMNSX 15X16AEDT AVYYCAIVITG VWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTX17VTVSS (SEQ ID NO:4), wherein X1 is E or Q; X2 is K or Q; X3 is V or E; X4 is A or P; X5 is V or A; X6 is F or V; X7 is E or G; X8 is R or L; X9 is F or W; X10 is A or S; Xn is M or I; X12 is A or S; X13 is V or L; X14 is D or Y; X15 is V or L; X 6 is K or R; and X17 is Q or L, or a sequence substantially identical thereto. In more specific non-limiting examples, the isolated or purified antibody may comprise a sequence selected from the group consisting of: QVLEESGGGLVQAGSLRLSCVASEYPSNFYASWFRQAPGKEREFVAG VSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTMSRDNAKNTVDLQMNSVKAEDTAVYYCAIV ITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTQVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:5), referred to herein as IGF1R -3; EVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWVRQAPGKGLEW VSGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTISRDNSKNTLYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYC AIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:6), referred to herein as IGF1R-3_H1; QVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWVRQAPGKGLEW VAGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTMSRDNSKNTVYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYY CAIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:7), referred to herein as IGF1R-3_H2; QVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWFRQAPGKGLEF VAGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTMSRDNSKNTVYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYY CAIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:8), referred to herein as IGF1R-3_H3; QVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWFRQAPGKEREF VAGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTMSRDNSKNTVYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYY CAIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:9), referred to herein as IGF1R-3_H4; and EVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWFRQAPGKEREF VSGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTISRDNSKNTLYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYC AIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO: 10), referred to herein as IGF1R-3_H5, or a sequence substantially identical thereto.

[015] The isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof as described above may be a single domain antibody (sdAb); the sdAb may be of camelid origin.

[016] The isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof of the present invention can be presented in a multivalent display format. In a multivalent display format, the antibody or fragment thereof can be linked to an Fc fragment; the Fc fragment is mouse Fc2b or human Fc1. For example, and without being limiting in any way, the isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof in multivalent display can comprise the sequence of SEQ ID NO:11 (referred to herein as IGF1R-3 Fc-consensus fusion), SEQ ID NO: 41 (hereinafter referred to as the Fc-IGF1R-3 consensus fusion) or 12 (hereinafter referred to as the IGF1R-3-Fc fusion).

[017] The isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof as described herein can transmigrate the blood-brain barrier.

[018] The present invention also provides a nucleic acid molecule encoding the isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof as described herein. A vector comprising the nucleic acid molecule as described is also provided.

[019] The isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof as described herein can be immobilized on a surface.

[020] The present invention further provides the isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof as described herein linked to a cargo molecule; the cargo molecule can have a molecular weight in the range of about 1 kD to about 200 kDa. The cargo molecule attached to the antibody or fragment thereof can be a detectable agent, a therapeutic, a drug, a peptide, a growth factor, a cytokine, a receptor scavenger, a chemical compound, a carbohydrate chemical moiety, a enzyme, an antibody or fragments thereof, a DNA-based molecule, a viral vector or a cytotoxic agent; one or more liposomes or nanocarriers loaded with a detectable agent, a therapeutic, a drug, a peptide, an enzyme, an antibody or fragments thereof, a DNA-based molecule, a viral vector, or a cytotoxic agent; or one or more nanoparticles, nanowires, nanotubes or quantum dots.

[021] Additionally, the present invention provides a composition comprising one or more than one isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof as described herein and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, diluent or excipient.

[022] An in vitro method for detecting IGF1R is also provided, the method comprising a) contacting a tissue sample with one or more than one isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof as described herein linked to a detectable agent; and b) detecting the detectable agent bound to the antibody or fragment thereof bound to the IGF1R in the tissue sample.

[023] In the method described above, the sample may be a serum sample, vascular tissue sample, tumor tissue sample, or a brain tissue sample from a human or animal subject. In the method as described, the detection step (step b)) can be performed using optical imaging, immunohistochemistry, molecular diagnostic imaging, ELISA, imaging mass spectrometry or other suitable method.

[024] An in vivo method for detecting IGF1R expression in an individual is further provided, the method comprising: a) administering one or more than one isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof as described herein linked to a subject detectable agent; and b) detecting the detectable agent bound to the antibody or fragment thereof bound to the IGF1R.

[025] In the method described above, the detection step (step b)) can be performed using PET (positron emission tomography), SPECT (single photon emission computed tomography), fluorescence imaging or any other method adequate.

[026] A method for transporting a molecule of interest across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is provided herein, the method comprising: a) administering one or more than one isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof as described herein linked to the molecule of interest to an individual, wherein the antibody or fragment thereof transmigrates the blood-brain barrier, wherein the one or more antibodies or fragment thereof passes the molecule of interest across the BBB. In the method as just described, the molecule of interest can have a molecular weight in the range of about 1kD to about 200kDa; the molecule of interest can be a detectable agent, a therapeutic, a drug, a peptide, a growth factor, a cytokine, a receptor receptor, a chemical compound, a carbohydrate chemical moiety, an enzyme, an antibody or fragment of even, a DNA-based molecule, a viral vector or a cytotoxic agent; one or more liposomes or nanocarriers loaded with a detectable agent, a therapeutic, a drug, a peptide, an enzyme, an antibody or fragment thereof, or a cytotoxic agent; or one or more nanoparticles, nanowires, nanotubes or quantum dots. In the method as described, administration can be intravenous (iv), subcutaneous (sc) or intramuscular (im).

[027] The invention also encompasses a method for quantifying an amount of a cargo molecule delivered across the BBB of an individual, wherein the cargo molecule is bound to one or more than an isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof, as described herein, the method comprising: a) collecting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the subject; and b) using targeted proteomics methods to quantify the amount of the cargo molecule bound to one or more isolated or purified antibodies or fragments in the CSF.

[028] The cargo molecule can be any desired molecule, including the previously described cargo molecules; the antibody or fragment thereof transmigrates to the BBB; the molecule can be "attached" to the antibody or fragment thereof, as described above. In the above method, CSF is collected from an individual using any suitable method known in the art. The amount of CSF required for the directed proteomics method in step b) can be between about 1 to 10 µl. The targeted proteomics methods used to quantify the amount of the one or more antibodies or fragment thereof bound to the cargo molecule can be any method known in the art. For example, and without being limiting, the directed proteomics method can be a mass spectrometry method, such as monitoring multiple reactions with isotype-identified internal standards (MRM - ILIS).

[029] The poor delivery of diagnostics or drugs through the narrow and highly selective BBB compromises the development of treatments for brain diseases, such as, but not limited to, brain tumors and neurodegenerative diseases. The lack of carriers to transport molecules across the BBB delays the development of new therapeutics and diagnostics for such diseases. As described herein, an IGF1R-binding VHH has been produced that provides an effective transport platform for the delivery of antibody-conjugated drugs across the BBB to their targets in the brain. The antibody described herein exploits the natural TMR trajectory of IGF1R from the luminal to the abluminal side of the brain endothelial cells that form the BBB. After antibody binding to IGF1R, RMT is initiated, and the antibody, along with a conjugated molecule (cargo), is transcytosed through the cell to the abluminal side where they are both released into the brain microenvironment. It was confirmed that the IGF1R VHH binds to the IGF1R (Figure 3C), internalizes into BBB cells (Figure 4) and crosses to the abluminal side of the in vitro BBB model (Figure 6B). In vivo brain drug delivery studies also showed that the IGF1R VHH "carried" a conjugated peptide (Galanin; about 3 kDa) as well as a large fusion protein (about 80 kDa) across the BBB (Figure 9A and B; Figure 6D).

[030] The results also show that the anti-IGF1R VHH can be expressed in fusion with the Fc fragment (crystallizable fragment) to extend the circulation half-life by about 75-fold (about 25 h compared to about 20 min for VHH alone). This high molecular weight (about 80 kDa) fusion construct is also efficiently transported across the BBB. The long plasma half-life increases CSF exposure of the IGF1R VHH-ITIFC conjugate (mFc = mouse Fc) significantly compared to VHH alone and is useful as a BBB delivery carrier for the treatment of chronic diseases with CNS targets. The conjugate is readily detected in brain parenchyma using immunofluorescence detection. The results demonstrate that the IGF1R VHH carrier can “transport” large molecules (similar in size to: antibodies, enzymes, growth factors, peptides, cytokines, receptor scavengers) across the BBB.

[031] Thus, antibody delivery may not only be useful for short-term (e.g., epileptic seizure) treatment, but may also be useful for medium-term (e.g., cancer) and long-term (e.g., cancer) treatments. , Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease).

[032] Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent in view of the following description. The detailed descriptions and examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, inasmuch as various changes and modifications within the scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the teachings of this invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[033] These and other features of the invention will now be described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[034] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the insulin-like growth factor receptor type 1 (IGF1R). The IGF1R is found on the cell surface and comprises two subunits: the alpha subunit and the beta subunit. The alpha subunit (which comprises an extracellular part with the insulin-like growth factor-1 binding site) is connected by a disulfide bond to the beta subunit (which comprises a small extracellular domain, a transmembrane region, and an intracellular portion). . The IGF1 Receptor can form a dimer. A 933 amino acid long fragment comprising the alpha subunit and the extracellular portion of the beta subunit, as indicated inside the gray box, (M1 - F933, SwissProt accession # P08069; see Figure 2) was recombinantly produced and used for immunization of a llama.

[035] Figure 2 shows the sequence of IGF1R (SwissProt Accession No. P08069). The 933 amino acid long protein fragment used for immunization and panning is shown in bold; the complete ectodomain is 2 amino acids long. The furin cleavage site, separating the alpha and beta subunits, is shown in lower case italics. The signal peptide is shown in bold italics.

[036] Figure 3A shows a size exclusion chromatography of IGF1R-3 of VHH binding to IGF1R and its humanized variants (H1, H2, H4, H5) extended through a Superdex 75 column. The profile suggests that these VHH are monomeric and not aggregators. Figure 3B shows the melting temperature (Tm) as determined by circular dichroism (CD) for IGF1R-3 VHH and its humanized variants (H1, H2, H3, H4, H5). Proteins were heated to above 90°C, and measurements were taken on the CD to determine the melting curve and the Tm. Subsequently, the IGF1R-3 VHH was cooled to room temperature, heated once more and analyzed by CD (bottom curve). This allowed the determination of the fraction of the refolded protein. This did not work for the humanized versions. Figure 3C shows a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensorgram overlay for binding of 0.1 to 10 nM IGF1R-3 VHH and its humanized variants (H1, H2, H4, H5) to the recombinant extracellular portion of the human IGF1R fragment. The data fits well in a 1:1 model. Figure 3D shows SPR sensorgrams of IGF1R-3 VHH binding to the recombinant extracellular portion of the human IGF1R fragment in the presence of IGF1. IGF1 in excess of 100 fold did not affect VHH binding of IGF1R-3, showing that both bind to different epitopes on the receptor. The experiment was repeated twice. Figure 3E shows that IGF1R-4 VHH did not bind to the recombinant extracellular portion of the human Insulin Receptor (IR) immobilized on the SPR surface, although it did not bind to the human IGF1R control surface (IGF1R surface indicated by * asterisk). As controls, IGF1 and insulin, the natural ligands of the two receptors flowed along the surfaces, and binding was detected as expected: IGF-1 bound to both receptors, whereas insulin binding could only be observed to the IGF-1 receptor. Insulin.

[037] Figure 4 shows VHH cellular uptake imaging results of IGF1R-3 identified with Cy-5.5 and control VHH. IGF1R-3 VHH identified with Cy5.5 (or FC5 VHH as a positive control; Muruganandam et al., 2002; Haqqani et al., 2012) were incubated with SV40 immortalized rat cerebral endothelial cells (svARBEC) at 4° C (upper panels) or 37°C (lower panels) to assess whether IGF1R-3 is internalized passively (4°C) or through active mechanisms (37°C) such as receptor-mediated endocytosis. Staining with wheat germ agglutinin and DAPI was performed to visualize the cell surface and nucleus, respectively. Top Panel: When incubated at 4°C, FC5 VHH and IGF1R-3 were found outside the cells (arrowheads), bound to the cell membrane (colocalized with wheat germ agglutinin). Bottom panel: At 37°C, FC5 VHH and IGF1R-3 accumulated within cells in vesicle-like structures (arrowheads), probably endosomes, suggesting internalization through an active transport mechanism.

[038] Figure 5A shows the sequence for the C-terminal fusion of IGF1R-3 VHH with the murine Fc fragment. A schematic representation of the assembled fusion protein is shown in Figure 5B with the IGF1R-3 VHH shown in the background and the murine Fc (CH2 and CH3) shown in grey.

[039] Figure 6A is a flow chart summarizing the use of the in vitro BBB model to assess the ability of various VHHs to cross the BBB. Equimolar amounts (5.6 µM) of IGF1R-3 and positive (FC5) and negative control VHHS (A20.1, a Clostridium difficile toxin A-binding VHH; and EG2, an EGFR-binding VHH) were tested concurrently with its ability to cross an in vitro rat BBB model. Adult rat SV40-immortalized cerebral endothelial cells (svARBECs) are grown on a monolayer on the membrane of an insert in the presence of conditioned medium with rat astrocytes in the lower chamber and standard medium in the upper chamber. After coaddition of equimolar amounts of the various VHH to the luminal side of the BBB model, samples were taken from the lower chamber after 15, 30 and 60 min. The concentrations of each VHH were then quantified by mass spectrometry (multiple reaction monitoring with isotype-identified internal standards; MRM-ILIS) in these samples. The Papp value [Qr/dt = cumulative amount in the receiving compartment versus time; A = area of cell monolayer; CO = initial concentration of dosing solution] is commonly used to determine the ability of a molecule across the BBB. Figure 6B shows the Papp values of the four co-administered VHH. IGF1R-3 has a significantly higher Papp value than FC5, whereas the negative controls both have very low Papp values, indicating facilitated transport of VHHs from FC5 and IGF1R-3 compared to paracellular transport or very low non-specific transport of control VHHs. Results are mean Papp values obtained from 5 to 6 independent experiments. Figure 6C shows the Papp values of humanized IGF1R-3 single domain antibodies (H1, H2, H3, H4, H5) (black bars) compared to A20.1 VHH (gray bars) which was tested as a control in the same well (mean A20.1 value is indicated by a gray dotted line). Figure 6D shows the Papp values of IGF1R-3 and IGF1R-3-mFc VHH (black bars), along with FC5 VHH and A20.1 VHH that were tested as controls in the same wells.

[040] Figure 7 shows the plasma and CSF pharmacokinetics of IGF1R-3-mFc after system (tail vein) administration of 5 mg/kg. The great cisterna was cannulated for serial CSF collections (1 to 48 h). Plasma and CSF levels of IGF1R-3mFc were determined using the MRM-ILIS method which “screens” and quantifies specific protein peptide signatures. CSF albumin levels were concomitantly determined by MRM. All CSF samples that have a plasma/CSF ratio less than 1500 were excluded as potentially contaminated with blood. The plasma/CSF ratio was 0.5% for IGF1R-3-mFc 24 h after systemic injection of the fusion protein. The CSF/plasma ratio of A20.1 mFc (0.04% in 24 h) administered at the same dose (5 mg/kg) measured in previous experiments has been indicated in light gray for comparison.

[041] Figure 8A shows the scheme for chemical synthesis of the VHH conjugate of IGF1R-3 and Galanin. IGF1R-3 was first conjugated to the NHS group of a Sulfo-SMCC crosslinker (1); then maleimide-activated IGF1R-3-sulfo-SMCC was conjugated to the reduced cysteine of Galanin (2). Figure 8B shows an SDS-PAGE gel of IGF1R-3 (lane 2), IGF1R3-SMCC (lane 3) and IGF1R-3-galanin conjugate (lane 4). The “banding” pattern indicates binding of 1 to 2 Galanin molecules by IGF1R-3.

[042] Figure 9 shows IGF1R-3-mediated cerebral delivery of the chemically conjugated peptide Galanin. Figure 9A is a graph showing the ability of IGF1R-3 to deliver pharmacologically effective doses of the analgesic peptide Galanin (3.2 kD) into the brain using the Hargraeves pain model. In this model, localized chronic pain is induced in male Wistar rats (4 to 6 weeks old) by injecting 100 μl of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into the left plantar surface, causing local inflammation within a few hours. After injection into the tail vein of the drug conjugate and VHH of BBB carrier or Galanin alone, the mice were placed in Plexiglas pouches set on a glass surface. A thermal stimulus is focused on the inflamed or contralateral paw through an angled mirror. The latency between stimulus application and paw withdrawal (paw licking or touching) is interpreted as a measure of the analgesic effect (inhibition of thermal hyperalgesia). Galanin peptide alone cannot penetrate the BBB, as demonstrated by the lack of analgesic effect after systemic (tail vein) injection of 1 mg/kg of Galanin (solid triangles). Systemic injection of the IGF1R-3 and Galanin conjugate (5.85 mg/kg) induced a dose-dependent analgesic effect over a 3-hour period, more pronounced than that observed with a 6 mg/kg dose of FC5 and Galanin conjugate. Figure 9B shows these results as the area under the curve (AUC) of the pharmacodynamic response compared to the maximum possible effect (MPE; control paw). 5.85 mg/kg of IGF1R-3-Galanine induced 65% MPE over a 3 hour period, demonstrating significant brain penetration of the conjugate compared to Galanin alone after systemic injection (<5% MPE) . Figure 9C shows a transient analgesic effect induced after systemic injection of 3 mg/kg of IGF1R-3 Galanin conjugate that disappears by 3 h after injection. A second injection of the same dose 1 h later produced a similar and only slightly attenuated analgesic response.

[043] Figure 10 shows the immunodetection of IGF1R-3mFc in brain sections 24 h after tail vein administration of a dose of 6 mg/kg. Sacrifice perfusion with PBS was performed on the rats, and brain sections (12 µm) were obtained using the vibratome. IGF1R-3mFc was immunodetected using an anti-mouse Fc antibody (red; red channel shown in inserts only). Blood vessels in the brain section (caudate putamen, Figure 10A; parietal cortex, Figure 10B) were detected using RCA1 lectin (green). IGF1R-3mFc could be detected in both vessels and outside the vessels (ie, in the brain parenchyma, transmigrated through the BBB) as indicated by the arrowheads.

[044] Figure 11 shows that IGF1R-3 does not interfere with insulin or IGF-1 signaling through the insulin receptor or IGF1R. Figure 11A is a representative Western blot showing that neither IGF1R-3 nor any of the other anti-IGF1R VHH tested (IGF1R-1, -4, -5 or -6) alone induce downstream Akt phosphorylation at a concentration of 100 nM. Neither the presence of 100 nM IGF1R-3, nor any of the other anti-IGF1R VHHS inhibit Akt phosphorylation as induced by 10 µg/ml insulin. Quantification of Western blot band densities from 3 independent experiments is shown in the bar graph (mean +/- SD) below the gel image. Figure 11B is a representative Western blot showing that neither IGF1R-3 nor any of the other anti-IGF1R VHH tested (IGF1R -4, -5 or -6) at 100 nM induce Akt phosphorylation by themselves and nor do they inhibit IGF-1-induced Akt phosphorylation (ie, signaling) induced upon stimulation with 200 µg/ml IGF-1. Quantification of Western blot band densities from 3 independent experiments is shown in the bar graph (mean +/- SD) below the gel image. Figure 11 C shows Western blots probed for phosphorylated IGF1R. Cells were incubated with 100 nM or 500 nM IGF1R-3, or any of the other anti-IGF1R VHHs (IGF1R-1, -4 or -5) fused at its C-terminus to a murine Fc (for example IGF1R- 3-mFc) alone or stimulated with 200 ng/ml IGF-1 in the presence of the respective IGF1R-VHH-ITIFC fusion proteins. Western blots indicate that none of the fusion constructs inhibited IGF-1-induced phosphorylation of the IGF1R nor induced receptor phosphorylation by themselves.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[045] The present invention relates to antibodies specific for Insulin-Like Growth Factor Receptor type 1, fragments thereof and uses thereof. More specifically, the present invention relates to Insulin-Like Growth Factor Receptor type 1 specific antibodies or fragments thereof that transmigrate the blood-brain barrier and uses thereof.

[046] The present invention provides isolated or purified antibodies or fragments thereof that specifically bind to an Insulin-Like Growth Factor Receptor type 1 (IGF1R) epitope in which the antibody or fragment thereof transmigrates the blood-brain barrier, and wherein the epitope is specifically bound by the antibody of SEQ ID NO:5. The IGF1R epitope can be in the extracellular domain of IGF1R.

[047] The present invention provides an isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof comprising: an EYPSNFYA complementarity determining region (CDR) 1 sequence (SEQ ID NO:1); a CDR2 sequence from VSRDGLTT (SEQ ID NO:2); and a CDR3 sequence from AIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHY (SEQ ID NO:3), wherein the antibody or fragment thereof specifically binds Insulin-Like Growth Factor Receptor 1 (IGF1R).

[048] The term "antibody", also known in the art as "immunoglobulin" (Ig), as used herein refers to a protein constructed from paired heavy and light polypeptide chains; several isotypes of Ig exist, including IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG and IgM. When an antibody is correctly folded, each chain folds into several distinct globular domains joined by more sequence of linear polypeptides. For example, the immunoglobulin light chain folds into one variable domain (VL) and one constant (CL), whereas the heavy chain folds into one variable domain (VH) and three constants (CH, CH2, CH3). The interaction of the heavy and light chain variable domains (VH and VL) results in the formation of an antigen-binding region (Fv). Each domain has a well-established structure familiar to those skilled in the art.

[049] The light and heavy chain variable regions are responsible for binding the target antigen and can therefore show significant sequence diversity among antibodies. The constant regions show less sequence diversity and are responsible for linking together various natural proteins to produce important biochemical events. The variable region of an antibody contains the antigen-binding determinants of the molecule and thus determines the specificity of an antibody for its target antigen. Most of the sequence variability occurs in six hypervariable regions, three each per variable heavy (VH) and light (VL) chain; the hypervariable regions combine to form the antigen-binding site and contribute to the binding and recognition of an antigenic determinant. The specificity and affinity of an antibody for its antigen are determined by the structure of the hypervariable regions, as well as their size, shape, and the surface chemistry they present to the antigen. Several schemes exist for identifying regions of hypervariability, the two most common being those of Kabat and those of Chothia and Lesk. Kabat et al (1991) define “complementarity determining regions” (CDR) based on sequence variability in the antigen-binding regions of the VH and VL domains. Chothia and Lesk (1987) define “hypervariable loops” (H or L) based on the location of structural loop regions in the VH and VL domains. As these individual schemes define CDRs and hypervariable regions are used that are adjacent or overlapping, those skilled in the art of antibodies often use the terms "CDR" and "hypervariable loop" interchangeably, and they can be used as such in present document. CDR/loops are named in this document according to the latest IMGT numbering system (Lefranc, M.-P. et al., 2003) which was developed to facilitate the comparison of variable domains. In this system, conserved amino acids (such as Cys23, Trp41, Cys104, Phe/Trp118 and a hydrophobic residue at position 89) always have the same position. Additionally, a standardized delimitation of the frame regions (FR1: positions 1 to 26; FR2: 39 to 55; FR3: 66 to 104; and FR4: 118 to 129) and the CDR (CDR1: 27 to 38, CDR2: 56 to 65; and CDR3: 105 to 117) is provided.

[050] An "antibody fragment" as termed herein may include any suitable antigen-binding antibody fragment known in the art. The antibody fragment may be a naturally occurring antibody fragment or may be obtained by engineering a naturally occurring antibody or using recombinant methods. For example, an antibody fragment may include, but is not limited to, an Fv, single-chain Fv (scFv; a molecule consisting of VL and VH connected with a peptide linker), Fab, F(ab')2, antibody single domain (sdAb; a fragment composed of a single VL or VH) and multivalent presentations of either thereof. Antibody fragments such as those just described may require linker sequences, disulfide bonds or other type of covalent bonding to link different portions of the fragments; those skilled in the art will be familiar with the requirements of different types of fragments and various approaches to their construction.

[051] In a non-limiting example, the antibody fragment may be an sdAb derived from naturally occurring sources. Heavy chain antibodies of camelid origin (Hamers-Casterman et al, 1993) do not have light chains and thus their antigen-binding sites consist of a domain, called the VHH. sdAbs have also been observed in sharks and are called VNAR (Nuttall et al, 2003). Other sdAbs can be modified based on human Ig heavy and light chain sequences (Jespers et al, 2004; To et al, 2005). As used herein, the term "sdAbs" includes those sdAbs directly isolated from the VH, VHH, VL or VNAR reservoir of any source through phage display or other technologies, sdAbs derived from the aforementioned sdAbs, recombinantly produced sdAbs, as well as as those sdAbs generated by further modifying such sdAbs by humanization, affinity maturation, stabilization, solubilization, camelization, or other antibody modification methods. Also encompassed by the present invention are homologues, derivatives or fragments that retain the antigen-binding function and specificity of sdAbs.

[052] SdAbs have desirable properties for antibody molecules, such as thermostability, high detergent resistance, relatively high resistance to proteases (Dumoulin et al, 2002) and high production yield (Arbabi-Ghahroudi et al, 1997); they can also be modified to have very high affinity by isolation from an immunological library (Li et al, 2009) or by in vitro affinity maturation (Davies & Riechmann, 1996). Additional modifications to increase stability, such as the introduction of non-canonical disulfide bonds (Hussack et al, 2011; Kim et al, 2012), can also be induced to sdAbs.

[053] A person skilled in the art would be well acquainted with the structure of a single domain antibody (see e.g. 3DWT, 2P42 in the Protein Database). An sdAb comprises a single immunoglobulin domain that retains the immunoglobulin fold; most notably, only three CDR/hypervariable loops form the antigen-binding site. However, as would be understood by those skilled in the art, not all of the CDR may be required to bind the antigen. For example, and without being limiting, one, two or three of the CDRs may contribute to antigen binding and recognition by the sdAb of the present invention. The CDRs of the sdAb or variable domain are referred to herein as CDR1, CDR2 and CDR3 and numbered as defined by Lefranc, .-P. et al. (2003).

[054] The antibody or fragment thereof of the present invention is specific for Insulin-Like Growth Factor Receptor 1 (IGF1R), a receptor found on cell surfaces. The IGF1R comprises an alpha subunit comprising an extracellular part having the insulin-like growth factor-1 binding site connected by a disulfide bond to the beta subunit comprising a small extracellular domain, a transmembrane region and an intracellular portion. The IGF1 Receptor assembles into a homodimer or can form a heterodimer with the insulin receptor. The IGF1R sequence can be, however, without limitation, that shown in Figure 2 (SwissProt Accession No. P08069; SEQ ID NO: 13), or a sequence substantially identical thereto.

[055] The antibody or fragment thereof as described herein must not interfere with signaling through the Insulin Receptor (IR) or IGF1R. Specifically, antibodies or fragments thereof as described herein must not inhibit insulin-induced phosphorylation of AKT, nor must they induce IR phosphorylation by themselves or inhibit insulin-induced signaling; additionally, the antibodies or fragments thereof described herein must not inhibit IGF-1-induced phosphorylation of the IGF1R. Furthermore, they must not bind to the Insulin Receptor.

[056] As stated above, the antibody or fragment thereof may be an sdAb. The sdAb may be of camelid origin or derived from a camelid VHH and thus may be based on camelid framework regions; alternatively, the CDR described above can be grafted into VNAR, VHH, VH or VL framework regions. In yet another alternative, the hypervariable loops described above can be grafted into the framework regions of other antibody fragment types (Fv, scFv, Fab) from any source (e.g., mouse) or proteins of similar size and nature in which the CDR can be grafted (eg see Nicaise et al, 2004).

[057] The present invention further encompasses an antibody or fragment that is "humanized" using any suitable method known in the art, for example, but not limited to, CDR grafting and inactivation. Humanizing an antibody or antibody fragment comprises replacing an amino acid in the sequence with its human counterpart, as found in the human consensus sequence, without loss of antigen-binding ability or specificity; this approach reduces the immunogenicity of the antibody or fragment thereof when introduced into human subjects. In the process of CDR grafting, one or more than one of the CDRs defined in the present document can be fused or grafted to a human variable region (VH or VL), to another human antibody (IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG and IgM) , to other human antibody fragment framework regions (Fv, scFv, Fab) or to other proteins of similar size and nature into which CDRs can be grafted (Nicaise et al, 2004). In such a case, the conformation of said one or more than one hypervariable loop is likely to be preserved, and the affinity and specificity of the sdAb towards its a target (i.e., IGF1R) is likely to be minimally affected. CDR grafting is known in the art and is described in at least the following: US Patent No. 6180370, US Patent No. 5693761, US Patent No. 6054297, US Patent No. 5859205 and US Patent No. 626390. termed in the art “variable region recomposition”, it involves the humanization of solvent-exposed positions of the antibody or fragment; thus, hidden non-humanized residues, which may be important for CDR conformation, are preserved while the potential for immune reaction against solvent exposed regions is minimized. Inactivation is known in the art and is described in at least the following: US Patent No. 5869619, US Patent No. 5766886, US Patent No. 5821123 and US Patent No. 519596. Persons skilled in the art would also be widely familiar with the methods to prepare such humanized antibody fragments and humanize amino acid positions.

[058] For example, and without being limiting in any way, the isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof specific for IGF1R can be: X1VX2LX3ESGGGLVQX4GGSLRLSCX5ASEYPSNFYAMSWX6RQAPGKX7 X8EX9VX10GVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTXnSRDNX11KNTX12X13LQMNSX 15X16AEDT AVYYCAIVITG VWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTX17VTVSS (SEQ ID NO:4), wherein X is E or Q; X2 is K or Q; X3 is V or E; X4 is A or P; X5 is V or A; X6 is F or V; X7 is E or G; X8 is R or L; X9 is F or W; X10 is A or S; Xn is M or I; X12 is A or S; X13 is V or L; X14 is D or Y; X15 is V or L; X16 is K or R; and X17 is Q or L, or a sequence substantially identical thereto. Alternatively, the isolated or purified antibody may comprise a sequence selected from the group consisting of: QVKLEESGGGLVQAGGSLRLSCVASEYPSNFYAMSWFRQAPGKEREF VAGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTMSRDNAKNTVDLQMNSVKAEDTAVYY CAIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTQVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:5), referred to herein as IGF1R-3; EVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWVRQAPGKGLEW VSGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTISRDNSKNTLYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYC AIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:6), referred to herein as IGF1R-3_H1; QVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWVRQAPGKGLEW VAGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTMSRDNSKNTVYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYY CAIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:7), referred to herein as IGF1R-3JH2; QVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWFRQAPGKGLEF VAGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTMSRDNSKNTVYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYY CAIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:8), referred to herein as IGF1R-3_H3; QVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWFRQAPGKEREF VAGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTMSRDNSKNTVYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYY CAIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:9), referred to herein as IGF1R-3_H4; and EVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWFRQAPGKEREF VSGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTISRDNSKNTLYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYC AIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:10), hereinafter referred to as IGF1R-3_H5, or a sequence substantially identical thereto.

[059] A substantially identical sequence may comprise one or more conservative amino acid mutations. It is known in the art that one or more conservative amino acid mutations to a reference sequence can yield a mutant peptide without any substantial change in physiological, chemical, physicochemical or functional properties; in such a case, the reference and mutant sequences would be considered "substantially identical" polypeptides. A conservative amino acid substitution is defined herein as replacing one amino acid residue with another amino acid residue with similar chemical properties (eg, size, charge, or polarity). Such conservative amino acid mutations can be made to the framework regions of the sdAb while maintaining the CDR sequences listed above and the general CDR structure of the antibody or fragment; thus, the specificity and binding of the antibody are maintained.

[060] In a non-limiting example, a conservative mutation can be an amino acid substitution. Such conservative amino acid substitution can replace a basic, neutral, hydrophobic, or acidic amino acid with another from the same group. By the term "basic amino acid" is meant hydrophilic amino acids that have a side chain pK value greater than 7 that are typically positively charged at physiological pH. Basic amino acids include histidine (His or H), arginine (Arg or R) and lysine (Lys or K). By the term "neutral amino acid" (also "polar amino acid"), it is meant hydrophilic amino acids that have a side chain that is not charged at physiological pH, but that has at least one bond in which the pair of electrons shared in common by two atoms is held more closely by one of the atoms. Polar amino acids include serine (Ser or S), threonine (Thr or T), cysteine (Cys or C), tyrosine (Tyr or Y), asparagine (Asn or N), and glutamine (Gin or Q). The term "hydrophobic amino acid" (also "non-polar amino acid") is intended to include amino acids that exhibit a hydrophobicity greater than zero according to Eisenberg's (1984) normalized consensus hydrophobicity scale. Hydrophobic amino acids include proline (Pro or P), isoleucine (Ile or I), phenylalanine (Phe or F), valine (Val or V), leucine (Leu or L), tryptophan (Trp or W), methionine (Met or M), alanine (Ala or A) and glycine (Gly or G). "Acidic amino acid" refers to hydrophilic amino acids that have a side chain pK value less than 7 that are typically negatively charged at physiological pH. Acidic amino acids include glutamate (Glu or E) and aspartate (Asp or D).

[061] Sequence identity is used to assess the similarity of two sequences; it is determined by calculating the percentage of residues that are equal when the two sequences are aligned for maximum correspondence between residue positions. Any known method can be used to facilitate sequence identity; for example, computer software is available to calculate sequence identity. Without being limiting, sequence identity can be calculated by software such as the NCBI BLAST2 service maintained by the Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (and as found at ca.expasy.org/tools/blast/), BLAST-P, Blast-N or FASTA-N, or any other appropriate software known in the art.

[062] The substantially identical sequences of the present invention can be at least 90% identical; in another example, substantially identical sequences can be at least 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99 or 100% identical, or any percentage thereof, at the amino acid level to the described sequences in this document. Importantly, substantially identical sequences retain the activity and specificity of the reference sequence. In a non-limiting embodiment, the difference in sequence identity may be due to conservative amino acid mutation(s). In a non-limiting example, the present invention can be directed to an antibody or fragment thereof comprising a sequence at least 95%, 98%, or 99% identical to that of the antibodies described herein.

[063] The antibody or fragment thereof of the present invention may also comprise additional sequences to aid in the expression, detection or purification of a recombinant antibody or fragment thereof. Any such sequences or tags known to those skilled in the art can be used. For example, and without being limiting, the antibody or fragment thereof can comprise a signal or targeting sequence (e.g., but not limitation, ompA), a detection/purification tag (e.g., but, not limitation, c -Myc, His5 or His6) or a combination thereof. In another example, the additional sequence may be a biotin recognition site such as that described by Cronan et al in WO 95/04069 or Voges et al in WO/2004/076670. As is also known to those skilled in the art, the linker sequences can be used in conjunction with the additional sequences or tags or can serve as a detection/purification tag.

[064] The antibody or fragment thereof of the present invention may also be in a multivalent display format, also referred to herein as multivalent display. Multimerization can be achieved by any suitable method known in the art. For example, and without being limiting in any way, multimerization can be achieved using self-assembling molecules such as those described in Zhang et al (2004a; 2004b) and WO2003/046560, in which pentabodies are produced by expressing a fusion protein comprising the antibody or fragment thereof of the present invention and the pentamerization domain of the B subunit of an AB5 toxin family (Merritt & Hol, 1995). A multimer can also be formed using the multimerization domains described by Zhu et al. (2010); this form, referred to herein as a “combody” form, is a fusion of the antibody or fragment of the present invention with a supercoiled-helix peptide resulting in a multimeric molecule (Zhu et al., 2010). Other multivalent display forms are also encompassed by the present invention. For example, and without being limiting, the antibody or fragment thereof can be presented as a dimer, a trimer, or any other suitable oligomer. This can be achieved by methods known in the art, for example, direct ligation connection (Nielson et al, 2000), c-jun/Fos interaction (from Kruif & Logtenberg, 1996), “Knob into holes” interaction (Ridgway et al, 1996).

[065] Another method known in the art for multimerization is to dimerize the antibody or fragment thereof using an Fc domain, for example, but without limitation, human Fc domains. Fc domains can be selected from various classes including but not limited to IgG, IgM or various subclasses including but not limited to lgG1, lgG2 and the like. In this approach, the Fc gene is inserted into a vector along with the sdAb gene to generate the sdAb-Fc fusion protein (Bell et al, 2010; Iqbal et al, 2010); the fusion protein is expressed recombinantly, then purified. For example, and without being limiting in any way, multivalent display formats can encompass chimeric or humanized VHH formats of anti-IGF1R-3 linked to an Fc domain, or bi- or trispecific antibody fusions with two or three unique epitopes of anti-IGF1R-3 VHH recognition. Such antibodies are easy to modify and produce, can significantly extend the half-life of the sdAb, and can be excellent tumor imaging reagents (Bell et al., 2010).

[066] The Fc domain in the multimeric complex as just described may be any suitable Fc fragment known in the art. The Fc fragment can be from any suitable source; for example, the Fc can be of human or mouse origin. In a specific, non-limiting example, the Fc can be mouse Fc2b fragment or human Fc1 fragment (Bell et al, 2010; Iqbal et al, 2010). The Fc fragment can be fused to the N-terminus or C-terminus of the anti-IGF1R-3 VHH or humanized versions of the present invention. In a specific non-limiting example, the isolated or purified antibody or fragment multimerized as just described may comprise the sequence of SEQ ID NO:11, 41 or 12.

[067] Each subunit of the multimers described above may comprise the same or different antibodies or fragments thereof of the present invention which may have the same or different specificity. Additionally, the multimerization domains can be linked to the antibody or antibody fragment using a linker, as required; such a linker must be of sufficient length and appropriate composition to provide flexible binding of the two molecules, but must not impair the antigen-binding properties of the antibody.

[068] The antibody or fragment thereof as described herein can transmigrate across the blood-brain barrier. The brain is separated from the rest of the body by specialized endothelial tissue known as the blood-brain barrier (BBB). BBB endothelial cells are connected by tight junctions and effectively prevent many therapeutic compounds from entering the brain. In addition to low rates of vesicular transport, a specific feature of the BBB is the existence of enzyme barrier(s) and high level(s) of expression of ATP-dependent transporters on the abluminal (brain) side of the BBB, including P-glycoprotein (Gottesman et al., 1993; Watanabe, 1995) which actively transports various molecules from the brain into the bloodstream (Samuels, 1993). Only small (<500 Daltons) and hydrophobic (Pardridge, 1995) molecules can more readily cross the BBB. Thus, the ability of the antibody or fragment thereof as described above to specifically bind the surface receptor, internalize into brain endothelial cells and undergo transcytosis across the BBB by evading lysosomal degradation is useful in the neurological field.

[069] The present invention also encompasses the nucleic acid sequences that encode the molecules as described herein. Given the degeneracy of the genetic code, various nucleotide sequences would have the effect of encoding the polypeptide, as would be readily understood by one skilled in the art. The nucleic acid sequence can be codon-optimized for expression in various microorganisms. The present invention also encompasses vectors comprising the nucleic acids as just described. Furthermore, the invention encompasses cells comprising the nucleic acid and/or vector as described.

[070] The present invention further encompasses the isolated or purified antibody or fragments thereof immobilized on a surface using various methodologies; for example, and without being limiting, the antibody or fragment can be bound or coupled to the surface via His-tag coupling, biotin binding, covalent bonding, adsorption, and the like. Immobilization of the antibody or fragment thereof of the present invention can be useful in various applications for capturing, purifying or isolating proteins. The solid surface may be any suitable surface, for example, but not limited to, the cavity surface of a microtiter plate, surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor chip channels, membranes, beads (such as beads with base magnetic or sepharose-based or other chromatography resin), glass, plastic, stainless steel, a film, or any other useful surface such as nanoparticles, nanowires, and cantilever surfaces.

[071] The invention also encompasses the antibody or fragment thereof as described above linked to a cargo molecule. The cargo molecule can be any suitable molecule that is delivered across the BBB by the antibody or fragment thereof. The cargo molecule can have a molecular weight in the range of about 1kD to about 200kDa; for example, the filler molecule can have a molecular weight of about 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85 , 90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 115, 120, 125, 130, 135, 140, 145, 150, 155, 160, 165, 170, 175, 180, 185, 190, 195 or 200 kDa or any weight between them or any range of weights defined by any two weights mentioned above. In specific non-limiting examples, the cargo molecule can have a molecular weight of 1 kDa (for example, but without limitation, a small molecule such as Cy5.5), 1 to 10 kDa (for example, but without limitation, a peptide such as galanin, 3 kDa), about 80 kDa (e.g., but not limitation, an Fc fragment, enzyme, protein, antibody, etc.), or about 200 kDa (e.g., but not limitation , a monoclonal antibody).

[072] For example, and without being limiting in any way, the cargo molecule can be a detectable agent, a therapeutic agent, a drug, a peptide, an enzyme, a growth factor, a cytokine, a receptor harvester, an antibody or fragment thereof (e.g., IgG, scFv, Fab, VHH, VH, VL, etc.), a chemical compound, a carbohydrate chemical moiety, DNA-based molecules (antisense oligonucleotide, microRNA, siRNA, plasmid ), a cytotoxic agent, viral vector (adeno, lenti, retro), one or more liposomes or nanocarriers loaded with any of the aforementioned types of cargo molecules, or one or more nanoparticles, nanowires, nanotubes, or quantum dots. The cargo molecule as described above may be a detectable agent. For example, the IGF1R-specific antibody or fragment thereof may be linked to a radioisotope, a paramagnetic tag, a fluorophore, a fluorescent agent, a fluorochrome, or a Near Infrared (NIR) dye; e.g., Cy5.5, an echogenic microbubble , an affinity tag, a detectable protein-based molecule, nucleotide, quantum dot, nanoparticle, nanowire or nanotube or any other suitable agent that can be detected by imaging methods. The antibody or fragment thereof can be linked to the cargo molecule using any method known in the art (recombinant technology, chemical conjugation, etc.).

[073] The cargo molecule as described herein can be linked, also referred to herein as "conjugate", to the antibody or fragment thereof by any suitable method known in the art. For example, and without being limiting, the cargo molecule can be attached to the peptide by a covalent bond or ionic interaction. Linkage can be achieved through a chemical cross-linking reaction or through fusion using recombinant DNA methodology combined with any peptide expression system, such as bacteria, yeast or mammalian cell-based systems. When conjugating the cargo molecule to the antibody or fragment thereof, a suitable linker can be used. Methods for linking an antibody or fragment thereof to a cargo molecule such as a therapeutic or detectable agent would be well known to one skilled in the art.

[074] In a non-limiting example, the cargo molecule can be a detectable tag, a radioisotope, a paramagnetic tag such as gadolinium or iron oxide, a fluorophore, fluorochrome or Near Infrared (NIR) dye, an echogenic microbubble, an affinity label (eg biotin, avidin, etc.), enzymes or any other suitable agent that can be detected by diagnostic imaging methods. In a specific non-limiting example, the anti-IGF1R-3 or fragment thereof can be linked to a near-infrared fluorescence imaging (NIRF) dye, for example, and without being limiting, Cy5.5, Alexa680, Dylight680 or Dylight800.

[075] Thus, the present invention further provides an in vitro method for detecting IGF1R comprising contacting a tissue sample with one or more than an isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof of the present invention linked to a detectable agent. The complex of IGF1R and antibody can then be detected using detection and/or imaging technologies known in the art. The tissue sample in the method as just described may be any suitable tissue sample, for example, but without limitation, a serum sample, a vascular tissue sample, a tumor tissue sample, or a brain tissue sample; the tissue sample can be from a human or animal subject. The contacting step is done under suitable conditions, known to those skilled in the art, for the formation of a complex between the antibody or fragment thereof and IGF1R. The detection step may be carried out by any suitable method known in the art, for example, but without limitation, optical imaging, immunohistochemistry, molecular diagnostic imaging, ELISA, imaging mass spectrometry or other suitable method. For example, and without being limiting in any way, isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof linked to a detectable agent can be used in immunoassays (IA) including, but not limited to, enzyme AI (EIA), ELISA, " rapid antigen capture”, “fast chromatographic AI” and “fast EIA”. (For example, see Planche et al, 2008; Sloan et al, 2008; Rüssmann et al, 2007; Musher et al, 2007; Turgeon et al, 2003; Fenner et al, 2008).

[076] The present invention also provides an in vivo method to detect IGF1R expression in an individual. The method comprises administering one or more than one isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof as described herein linked to a detectable agent to the individual, then detecting the identified antibody or fragment thereof bound to IGF1R. The step of detecting may comprise any suitable method known in the art, for example, but without limitation, PET, SPECT or fluorescence imaging or any other suitable method. The method as just described may be useful in detecting IGF1R expression in blood vessels or tissues, for example, but without limitation, tumor tissues. The in vivo detection step in the methods described above may be whole body imaging to diagnostic purposes or local imaging at specific sites, such as, but not limited to, cerebral vessels or brain tumor vessels, in a quantitative manner to assess disease progression or host response to a treatment regimen. The detection step in the methods as described above may be immunohistochemistry or a non-invasive (molecular) diagnostic imaging technology including, but not limited to: • Optical imaging; • Positron Emission Tomography (PET), where the detectable agent is an isotope such as 11C, 13N, 15O, 18F, 64Cu, 62Cu, 124l, 76Br, 82Rb and 68Ga, with 18F being the most used clinically; • Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), where the detectable agent is a radiotracer such as 99mTc, 11ln, 123l, 20TI, 133Xe, depending on the specific application; • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), where the detectable agent can be, for example, and not limited to gadolinium, iron oxide nanoparticles and carbon-coated iron and cobalt nanoparticles, thus increasing the sensitivity of the MRI to the plaque detection. • Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS) or ultrasound, where the detectable agent is at least one acoustically active gas-filled microbubble. Ultrasound is a common technology for screening and early detection of human disease. It is less expensive than MRI or scintigraphy and safer than molecular imaging modalities such as radionuclide imaging because it does not involve radiation.

[077] The present invention further provides a method for transporting a molecule of interest across the blood-brain barrier. The method comprises administering the antibody-linked molecule or fragment thereof as described herein to a subject; the antibody or fragment thereof transmigrates the blood-brain barrier. The molecule can be any desired molecule, including cargo molecules as described above; the molecule can be "attached" to the antibody or fragment thereof using any suitable method, including, but not limited to, conjugation or expression in a fusion protein. Administration can be by any suitable method, for example, parenteral administration, including, but not limited to, intravenous (iv), subcutaneous (sc) and intramuscular (im) administration. In this method, the antibody or fragment thereof of the present invention "carries" the molecule of interest across the BBB to its target in the brain.

[078] The present invention also encompasses a composition comprising one or more than one isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof as described herein. The composition can comprise a single antibody or fragment as described above, or it can be a mixture of antibodies or fragments. Furthermore, in a composition comprising a mixture of antibodies or fragments of the present invention, the antibodies may have the same specificity or may differ in their specificities; for example, and without being limiting in any way, the composition may comprise antibodies or fragments thereof specific for IGF1R (same or different epitope).

[079] The composition may also comprise a pharmaceutically acceptable diluent, excipient or carrier. The diluent, excipient or carrier can be any diluent, excipient or carrier known in the art and must be compatible with the other ingredients in the composition, the method of delivery of the composition and is not harmful to the recipient of the composition. The composition can be in any suitable form; for example, the composition may be provided in suspension form, powder form (eg, but not limited to freeze-dried or encapsulated form), capsule or tablet form. For example, and without being limiting, when the composition is provided in suspension form, the carrier can comprise water, saline, a suitable buffer or additives to improve solubility and/or stability; reconstitution to produce the suspension is carried out in a buffer at a suitable pH to ensure availability of the antibody or fragment thereof. Dry powders can also include additives to improve stability and/or carriers to increase mass/volume; for example, and without being limiting, the dry powder composition can comprise sucrose and trehalose. In a specific non-limiting example, the composition can be so formulated to deliver the antibody or fragment thereof to the subject's gastrointestinal tract. Thus, the composition may comprise encapsulation, timed release, or other technologies suitable for delivering the antibody or fragment thereof. It would be within the skill of one skilled in the art to prepare suitable compositions comprising the present compounds.

[080] The invention also encompasses a method for quantifying an amount of a cargo molecule delivered through the BBB of an individual, in which the cargo molecule is bound to one or more than an isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof, as described herein, the method comprising: a) collecting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the individual; and b) using targeted proteomics methods to quantify the amount of the cargo molecule bound to one or more than one antibody or fragment thereof in the CSF.

[081] The cargo molecule can be any desired molecule, including the cargo molecules as described above; the isolated or purified antibody or fragment thereof transmigrates the blood-brain barrier; and the molecule can be "attached" to the antibody or fragment thereof using any suitable method, including, but not limited to, conjugation or expression in a fusion protein, as described above. In the above method, CSF is collected from an individual using any suitable method known in the art. The amount of CSF required for the directed proteomics method in step b) can be between about 1 to 10 µl; for example, the amount of CSF required may be around 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5, 5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5, 9.0, 9.5 or 10 µl, or any amount in between, or any range defined by the amount just described. The antibody or fragment bound to the cargo molecule may have been administered to the individual prior to CSF collection. An adequate delay between administration and delivery of the antibody or fragment linked to the cargo molecule across the BBB may be required. The delay can be at least 30 minutes after administration of the antibody or fragment linked to the cargo molecule; for example, and without being limiting in any way, the delay can be at least 30 minutes, 1 hour, 1.5 hours, 2 hours, 2.5 hours, 3 hours, 3.5 hours, 4 hours, 4.5 hours or 5 hours. The targeted proteomics methods used to quantify the amount of the one or more antibodies or fragment thereof bound to the cargo molecule can be any method known in the art. For example, and without being limiting, the directed proteomics method may be a mass spectrometry method, such as, but not limited to, monitoring multiple reactions using an isotopically identified internal standard (MRM-ILIS; see, eg Haqqani et al., 2013). MRM is advantageous in that it allows rapid, sensitive, and specific quantification of unidentified targeted analytes (eg, an antibody or fragment thereof as described herein) in a biological sample. The multiplexing capability of the assay can allow quantitation of both the antibody or fragment thereof and the cargo molecule.

[082] The present invention will be further illustrated in the following examples. However, it should be understood that these examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention in any way.

Example 1: purification of recombinant IGF1R fragment

[083] A 933 amino acid long recombinant fragment of the extracellular domain of IGF1R (shown by the gray box in Figure 1; see also amino acids 1 to 933 of SEQ ID NO: 13) was prepared. The fragment comprised a 30 amino acid N-terminal signal peptide, the complete alpha subunit, a furin cleavage site (RKRR, SEQ ID NO: 14; separating the alpha and beta subunits), as well as most of the extracellular beta subunit (Figures 1 and 2).

[084] Cloning. The IGF1R ectodomain sequence of interest was amplified by PCR using the following primers: 5'-CGGGATCCGCCACCATGAAGTCTGGCTCCGGAG-3' (forward; SEQ ID NO:15) 5'-GCTCTAGATCAGAAGTTTTCATATCCTGTTTTGG-3' (reverse; SEQ ID NO: 16) and subcloned into the Smal site of Pud 9. The IGF1R933 sequence was then subcloned into pCDN4/myc-His (Invitrogen) to generate plGF1 R933-His which allows expression of a His-tagged ectodomain as previously described (Samani et al., 2004).

[085] Temporary transfection. Lentivirus particles expressing IGF1R933-His were generated in the 293SF-PacLV packaging cell line, as detailed previously (Broussau et al., 2008). Briefly, cells were transfected with the vector using polyethyleneimine. Fresh medium (LC-SFM), containing 1 μg/ml doxycycline and 10 μg/ml coumate, was added to the cells 5 hours after transfection, and supernatants containing LV particles were collected after 48 to 72 hours, concentrated by ultracentrifugation at 100,000xg for 2 h at 4°C in a 20% sucrose pad (Gaillet B et al. 2007), resuspended in LC-SFM medium supplemented with 1% FBS and stored at -70°C until used.

[086] Stable expression. A stable cell line, 293SF-cum2-CR5-IGF1R-His, was generated by transducing 293SF-Cum2 cell lines with the respective lentiviral particles using a previously described protocol (Gaillet B. et al. 2010) . Briefly, 0.5 to 1.0 X 10 5 293SF-Cum2 cells were seeded in 24-well plates in 200 µl of LC-SFM medium without dextran sulfate. The LV suspension was prepared by mixing 200 to 500 μl of LV with 8 μg/ml of polybrene and incubating it for 30 min at 37 °C. The freshly prepared LV suspension was added to the cells 4 hours after seeding. After 24 h, 500 μl of medium supplemented with dextran sulfate was added to the cells. To increase the level of expression, cells were re-transduced up to 6 times using the same protocol after 3 to 4 days of cell recovery. Finally, cells were expanded in 6-well plates and shaker flasks.

[087] Large-scale protein purification and production. The clone identified as the highest producer was expanded in spinner or shaker flasks. Protein production was initiated by the addition of 1 μg/ml of coumate in fresh medium, followed by a 24 h incubation at 37 °C and a 4 to 8 day incubation at 30 °C. Cells were removed by centrifugation, and the supernatants filtered and concentrated (10x) using Tangential Flow Filtration Systems (Pellicon ultrafiltration cassettes, EMD Millipore).

[088] The IGF1R933-His was purified using a HisPrep column (GE Healthcare) according to the manufacturer's instructions. Briefly, the concentrated sample was applied to a His-prep FF (16/10) column (GE Healtcare), equilibrated and washed with 50 mM sodium phosphate, 300 mM NaCl, 5 mM imidazole pH 7.5 and eluted with 50 mM sodium phosphate, 300 mM NaCl, 500 mM imidazole pH 7.5. A step elution with 0.1 M sodium citrate pH 4.5 to pH 2.5 was used to elute the protein, and the peak fractions were pooled. Buffer exchange was performed by ultrafiltration using a 50 kDa cut-off membrane or a desalting column with a buffer containing 50 mM sodium phosphate, 150 mM NaCl, and 0.01% Tween-80, pH 7 ,two. The purity of both proteins was verified by SDS-PAGE, and they were stored at -80°C until used (see subsequent examples).

Example 2: Llama immunization and serum response

[089] To isolate VHHs that target the extracellular domain of IGF1R, a llama was immunized with the recombinant IGF1R933-His fragment obtained in Example 1.

[090] A male llama (Lama glama) was immunized by subcutaneous lumbar injection of recombinant IGF1R933-His antigen (Example 1). On day 1, 200 µg of antigen diluted in PBS to 1 ml was injected along with 1 ml of Complete Freund's Adjuvant (Sigma, St. Louis, MO). Three additional injections of 100 µg of IGF1R933-His antigen plus Incomplete Freund's Adjuvant (Sigma) were performed on days 22, 36 and 50. A final injection of 100 µg of antigen without any adjuvant was performed on day 77. immune was withdrawn before the first injection on day 1 and served as a negative control. Blood (10 to 15 ml) was collected on days 29, 43, 57 and 84. Blood from day 84 was processed immediately to isolate peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Blood was diluted 1:1 with phosphate buffered saline (PBS), and PBMCs were purified from blood using the Lymphoprep Tube (Axis Shield). Cells were counted and stored as aliquots of about 1 x 10 7 cells at -80 °C for future use.

[091] Whole preimmune and postimmune sera were analyzed for a specific response to the IGF1R933-His antigen by ELISA on day 57. Llama sera from day 84 were fractionated as previously described (Doyle et al, 2008 ). The resulting fractions A1 (HCAb), A2 (HCAb), G1 (HCAb) and G2 (clgG) were analyzed for specific binding to the IGF1R933-His antigen by ELISA. Briefly, 5 µg of recombinant IGF1R933-His antigen diluted in PBS was incubated overnight (100 µl/well, 18 h, 4°C) in Maxisorp 96-well plates (Nalgene, Nunc) to coat the plates. . Plates were blocked with bovine serum albumin (BSA), washed with PBS-T (PBS + 0.05% (v/v) Tween-20), and serial dilutions of total pre-immune serum, total post-immune serum ( day 57) and fractionated serum (day 84) were applied. After incubation at room temperature for 1.5 h, the plates were washed with PBS-T, before goat anti-llama IgG (1:1000 in PBS) was added, and the plates were incubated for 1 h at 37°C. After washing with PBS-T, pig anti-goat IgG-HRP conjugate (1:3000 in PBS) was added and the plates were incubated for 1 h at 37°C. A final PBS-T wash was performed prior to the addition of 100 µl/well of TMB substrate (KPL, Gaithersburg, MD); the substrate was incubated for 10 min. The reaction was stopped with 100 µl/well of 1 M H3PO4. Absorbance was read at 450 nm.

Example 3: Library construction and selection of IGF1R binding VHHs

[092] A hyperimmunized llama VHH library was constructed based on RNA isolated from PBMCs in Example 2.

[093] The construction and panning of the library were carried out essentially as previously described (Arbabi-Ghahroudi et al, 2009a, 2009b; Tanha et al, 2003). Total RNA was isolated from approximately 107 PBMCs collected on day 84 post immunization (Example 2) using the QIAamp Mini RNA Blood Kit (Qiagen). About 5 µg of the total RNA was used as a template for first strand cDNA synthesis with oligo dT primers using the First Strand cDNA Synthesis Kit (GE Healthcare). The cDNA was amplified by an equimolar mixture of three variable region-specific sense primers: MJ1: 5'-GCCCAGCCGGCCATGGCCSMKGTGCAGCTGGTGGAKTCCTGGGGGA-3' (SEQ ID NO: 17) MJ2: 5'-GCCCAGCCGGCCATGGCCCAGGTAAAGCTGGAGGAGTCTGGGGGA-3' (SEQ ID NO:18) MJ3 : 5'-GCCCAGCCGGCCATGGCCCAGGCTCAGGTACAGCTGGTGGAGTCT-3' (SEQ ID NO:19), and two antisense CH2-specific primers: CH2: 5'-CGCCATCAAGGTACCAGTTGA-3' (SEQ ID NO:20) CH2b3: 5'-GGGGTACCTGTCATCCACGGACCAGCTGA-3' ( SEQ ID NO:21).

[094] Briefly, the PCR reaction mix was set up in a total volume of 50 µl with the following components: 1 to 3 µl of cDNA, 5 pmol of MJ1-3 primer mix, 5 pmol of CH2 primers or CH2b3, 5 µl of 10x reaction buffer, 1 µl of 10 mM dNTP, 2.5 units of Taq DNA polymerase (Hoffmann-La Roche). The PCR protocol consisted of an (i) initial step at 94 °C for 3 min, (ii) followed by 30 cycles of 94 °C for 1 min, 55 °C for 30 s, 72 °C for 30 s, and (iii ) a final extension step at 72 °C for 7 min. The amplified PCR products were run on a 2% agarose gel, and two main bands were observed: a band of about 850 bp, corresponding to conventional IgG, and a second band of about 600 bp, corresponding to the VHH region. -CH2 of camelid heavy chain antibodies. Smaller bands were cut out and purified using the QIAquick Gel Extraction Kit (Qiagen) and reamplified in a second PCR in a total volume of 50 µl using 1 µl (30 ng) DNA template, 5 pmol of each MJ7 primer (5'-CATGTGTAGACTCGCG GCCCAGCCGGCCATGGCC-3' SEQ ID NO:22) and MJ8 primer (5 - CATGTGTAGATTCCTGGCCGGCCTGGCCTGAGGAGACGGTGACCTGG-3' SEQ ID NO:23), 5 µl 10x reaction buffer, 1 µl dNTP at 10 mM, 2.5 units of Taq DNA polymerase. The PCR protocol consisted of (i) an initial step at 94 °C for 3 min, (ii) followed by 30 cycles of 94 °C for 30 s, 57 °C for 30 s, and 72 °C for 1 min, and (iii ) a final extension step at 72 °C for 7 min. The amplified PCR products, in the range between 340 bp and 420 bp and corresponding to the VHH fragments of the heavy chain antibodies, were purified using the QIAquick PCR Purification Kit (Qiagen), digested with Sfil restriction enzyme (New England BioLabs) and purified again using the same kit.

[095] 80 μg of pMEDI phagemid vector (Arbabi-Ghahroudi et al, 2009b) was digested with Sfil overnight at 50 °C. To minimize self-ligation, 20 units of XhoI and PstI restriction enzymes were added to cut the excised fragment, and the digestion reaction was incubated for an additional 2 h at 37 °C. 60 µg of digested phagemid DNA was ligated to 6 µg of digested VHH fragments (Sfil for 5 h at 50 °C) (1:1 molar ratio) for 3 h at room temperature using the LigaFast Rapid DNA Ligation System (Promega) according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ligated plasmids were purified using the QIAquick PCR Purification Kit (Qiagen), eluted in a final volume of 100 µl and transformed into electrocompetent E. coli TG1 (Stratagene) using a 5 µl aliquot of DNA ligated by transformation reaction, as described (Arbabi-Ghahroudi et al, 2009b). The library size was determined to be 5 x 10 7 as described in (Arbabi-Ghahroudi et al, 2009b). 20 clones were sequenced and contained all sequences unique to VHH. The E. coli containing library was proliferated for 2 to 3 h at 37 °C, 250 rpm in the presence of 2% (w/v) glucose. The bacteria were then pelleted, resuspended in 2xYT/Amp/Glu (2xYT medium with 100 μg/ml ampicillin and 2% (w/v) glucose) with 35% (v/v) glycerol and stored at -80 °C in small aliquots.

[096] The panning experiments were essentially performed as described in (Arbabi et al, 1997). Two milliliters of the library (2.0 x 10 10 bacteria) were thawed on ice and grown in 2xYT/Amp/Glu for about 2 h at 37 °C (A600 = 0.4 - 0.5). E. coli were subsequently infected with M13K07 helper phage in 20x excess (New England Biolabs) for 1 h at 37 °C. The culture was then centrifuged at 4 °C, and the infected bacterial pellets were resuspended in 200 ml of 2xYT/Amp with 50 μg/ml of kanamycin and incubated at 37 °C and 250 rpm. Phage particles in the culture supernatants were incubated with 1/5 volume of 20% PEG 8000/2.5 M NaCl on ice for 1 h and centrifuged at 10,000 rpm for 15 min. The phage pellets were resuspended in 1.5 ml of sterile PBS, titrated and used as input phage for panning. For panning cycle 1, Maxisorp™ 96-well plates were coated with 10 µg recombinant IGF1R933-His per well in 100 µl PBS overnight at 4°C. Wells were rinsed with PBS and blocked with PBS plus 1% casein (w/v) for 2 h at 37 °C. Approximately 1012 phages were added to blocked wells and incubated for 2 h at 37 °C. After washing 10x with PBS/Tween 20 0.1% (in v/v), bound phages were eluted with 0.1 M triethylamine, neutralized (50 µl 1 M Tris-HCl, pH 7.4) and mixed with TG1 E. coli proliferating exponentially. Titration of eluted phage was performed, and infected bacteria were superinfected with M13K07 and grown overnight at 37 °C. The purified phage from the overnight culture was used as the input for the next round of panning. Panning was continued for three more cycles. The same protocol as described above was used, except that the amount of recombinant antigen to coat the plates was reduced to 7 μg, 5 μg and 5 μg for the second, third and fourth panning cycles, respectively.

[097] Single TG1 colonies obtained after round four of panning were subjected to phage ELISA screening, essentially as described elsewhere (Doyle et al, 2008), with the exception that 5 µg/ml recombinant antigen of IGF1R933-His were used to coat the microtiter plates. All positive clones were sent for DNA sequencing. The unique clones that generated the superior phage ELISA signals were selected for large scale expression and purification using known methods (see Example 4). A clone named IGF1R-3 was identified for further study; its sequence is shown below. QVKLEESGGGLVQAGGSLRLSCVASEYPSNFYAMSWFRQAPGKEREF VAGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTMSRDNAKNTVDLQMNSVKAEDTAVYY CAIVITGWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTQVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:3)

Example 4: Humanization of IGF1R-3

[098] To avoid the potential immunogenicity of llama-derived IGF1R-3 when applied as the BBB carrier for therapeutics, the camelid-derived sdAb was "humanized" by mutating "camelid" residues in the VHH. It should be noted that, for the purpose of humanization, Kabat numbering (Kabat et al, 1991) was used for the identification of CDR residues.

[099] 3D structure modeling of camelid VHHs. Model VHH-like structures of IGF1R-3 were identified using BLAST searches against the Protein Database (PDB). The 3D structure of IGF1R-3 was approximated using homology modeling based on 4KRP|B (PDB code | String ID) as the main model, with additional information from 4FHB|D. The IGF1R-3 VHH framework was then constructed by mutating the master template framework to the IGF1R-3 sequence; this included 35 mutations at various positions. The IGF1R-3 VHH model was then refined by energy minimization with the AMBER force field and a gradual release of constraints, ranging from the CDR loops, which were relaxed first, to the main chain heavy atoms of the IGF1R-3 region. frame, which were completely relaxed only in the last stage. The CDR-H3 loop of the VHH model was then refined by Monte-Carlo minimization conformational sampling (MCM), in which the dihedral angles in the CDR-H3 region were sampled followed by energy minimization.

[100] Selection of the human heavy chain scaffold for the camelid CDR. The human heavy chain framework was selected by comparing standard sequence homology to human germline databases (VBASE), other sequence databases (Genbank and SwissProt), and human framework consensus sequences. BLAST searches were conducted to retrieve sequence matches with the greatest homology in the framework region only (ie, excluding the CDR) while matching the length of the CDR. The closest human scaffolds identified for IGF1R-3 VHH corresponded to the human VH-3 subgroup. Several human germline VH-3 framework sequences that were most similar to IGF1R-3 VHH were also retained in addition to the human VH-3 consensus sequence. The IGF1R-3 VHH framework sequences required 18 mutations in order to arrive at the consensus human VH-3 sequence for 100% framework humanization.

[101] Identification of frame residues for backmutations. The IGF1R-3 VHH model and its fully humanized counterpart were characterized by estimating the humanity index, antigen contact propensity index, by delineating the CDR, canonical residues, unusual scaffold residues, potential glycosylation site, hidden residues , Vernier zone residues and proximity to the CDR. Analysis of these data suggested the design of several humanized variants for the anti-IGF1R VHH, each variant having varying numbers of backmutations to the parent camelid residues at various positions. 5 humanized variants were designed for IGF1R-3 VHH (IGF1R-3_H1 to IGF1R-3_H5), where the variants contained up to 10 backmutations. Some of these camelid backmutation residues have been buried within the VHH core domain and therefore are not expected to elicit an immune response.

Example 5: Expression and Purification of Selected VHH Constructs

[102] The IGF1R-3 identified in Example 3 and the humanized versions constructed in Example 4 (collectively referred to herein as "VHH constructs") were subcloned into expression plasmids for protein expression and purification.

[103] A phagemid vector containing the IGF1R-3 VHH construct DNA was purified using the MiniPrep Kit (Qiagen). IGF1R-binding VHH IGF1R-3 was PCR amplified from the pMED1 phagemid vector by adding the N-terminal BbsI cleavage site and a C-terminal BamHI cleavage site using primers :5'-TATGAAGACACCAGGCCCAGGTAAAGCTGGAGGAGTCT-3' (forward; SEQ ID NO:24)5'-TTGTTCGGATCCTGAGGAGACGGTGACCTG-3' (reverse; SEQ ID NO:25)

[104] The PCR fragment and expression vector pSJF2H were digested with restriction enzymes Bbsl and BamHI (NEB) according to the manufacturer's instructions. After digestion, each digested IGF1R-3 VHH fragment was ligated into the digested pSJF2H expression vector, using methods similar to those described in Arbabi-Ghahroudi et al. (2009b); the ligation products were then transformed into electrocompetent TG1 E. coli. Clones were selected on LB agar plates + 100 μg/ml ampicillin and verified by DNA sequencing.

[105] Humanized clones were synthesized and directly cloned into pSJF2H, similarly as described above, and subsequently transformed into E. coli TG1 and selected as described above.

[106] Protein Expression. All of the IGFR-3 VHH was expressed in TG1 E. coli. An overnight culture in LB/amp/glu medium (LB medium supplemented with 100 µg/ml ampicillin and 1% glucose) was subcultured at a 1:100 dilution into 1 L of LB/amp/glu . Protein expression was induced at an OD600 of 0.8 to 0.9 by adding IPTG to a final concentration of 0.2 mM. The culture was grown at 220 rpm overnight at 37°C. Bacteria were pelleted by centrifugation at 6,000 rpm for 12 min; the pellet was resuspended in 35 ml of cold TES buffer (0.2 M TrisCI pH 8.0, 20% sucrose, 0.5 mM EDTA). The suspension was incubated on ice and centrifuged every 10 min for 1 h. Then, 45 ml of cold TES (1/8 volume of the total volume) was added and immediately centrifuged for 1 minute and 15 seconds every 10 min thereafter for 1 hour to extract the periplasmic protein. The resulting supernatant containing VHH was filtered through a 0.22 µm membrane and dialyzed overnight in immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) buffer A (10 mM HEPES pH 7.0, NaCl a 500 mM). The protein was purified using HP Chelating HiTrap columns (GE Healthcare) as previously described (Arbabi-Ghahroudi 2009b). The eluted protein fractions were analyzed by SDS-PAGE and Western blotting before being dialyzed against PBS as previously described (Arbabi-Ghahroudi 2009b). Purified protein fractions were pooled and dialyzed against PBS + 3 mM EDTA, and the protein concentration was determined.

Example 6: Biophysical characterization of IGF1R-3 from VHH anti-IGF1 R

[107] The VHH anti-IGF1R IGF1R-3 constructs expressed and purified in Example 4 were characterized using size exclusion chromatography, melting temperature analysis, and surface plasmon resonance analysis.

[108] Size Exclusion Chromatography: Size exclusion chromatography employing Superdex™ 75 (GE Healthcare) was used to eliminate any possible aggregates prior to Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) analysis. The running buffer used was 10 mM HEPES, pH 7.4 containing 150 mM NaCl, 3 mM EDTA and 0.005% P20. The concentrations of fractions used for SPR analysis were determined by measuring the absorbance at a wavelength of 280 nm. SEC analysis suggested that IGF1R3 VHH and its humanized variants H1, H2, H4 and H5 were monomeric based on elution volume compared to standards (Figure 3A).

[109] Melting temperature: The thermal stability of the VHH of IGF1R-3 and humanized constructs was evaluated using measurement of the melting temperature (Tm) by CD spectroscopy. A Jasco J-815 spectropolarimeter equipped with a Peltier thermoelectric type temperature control system (Jasco, Easton, MD, USA) was used to run experiments. A CD crucible with a path length of 1 mm was used. Spectra were recorded over a wavelength range of 180 to 260 nm with a scan speed of 50 nm/min, digital integration time (DIT) of 4 s, a bandwidth of 1 nm, data offset of 1 nm and an integration time of 1 s. To measure the melting temperature or Tm (Greenfield, 2006a; 2006b), CD spectra were recorded over a temperature range of 30 °C to 96 °C. All CD spectra were subtracted from the raw value corresponding to the buffer spectra. Measurements were performed with concentrations of 50 μg/ml of VHH in 100 mM sodium phosphate buffer, pH 7.4. Heat-induced protein denaturation was monitored at 210 nm for all variants. The doubled fraction (ff) was obtained by a formula as described (Greenfield, 2006a; 2006b): where [θ]y is the molar ellipticity at any temperature, [θ]F is the molar ellipticity of the fully folded protein at 30 °C, and [θ]u is the molar ellipticity of the unfolded protein at 90 °C. The melting temperature (Tm) was obtained as a midpoint of the split curve (folded fraction (ff) versus temperature) by a non-linear regression curve fitting (Sigmoid Boltzman equation) using GraphPad Prism graphics software (version 4.02 for Windows). Melting temperatures (Tm) of VHH were determined based on ellipticity data assuming a two-state system that conforms to the observed denaturation curves that correspond to an abrupt transition to denaturation. Tm values were taken at the midpoint of the sigmoid denaturation curves of the folded fraction (ff) versus temperature. The results are shown in Figure 3B. The melting temperatures of most humanized VHH were improved (higher) compared to the IGF1R-3 VHH, suggesting improved biophysical properties.

[110] Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR): Binding of monomeric IGF1R-3 VHH constructs to immobilized recombinant human IGF1R (Example 1) was determined by SPR using the BIACORE 3000 (GE Healthcare). Approximately 3,000 Resonance Units (RU) of recombinant human IGF1R were immobilized on a CM5 sensory chip. Immobilization was performed at a concentration of 10 µg/ml in 10 mM acetate at pH 4.0 using the amine coupling kit provided by the manufacturer. The remaining binding sites were blocked with 1 M ethanolamine pH 8.5. A surface blocked with ethanolamine was used as a reference surface. For binding studies, analyzes were performed at 25 °C in 10 mM HEPES, pH 7.4 containing 150 mM NaCl, 3 mM EDTA and 0.005% P20 surfactant (Polyoxyethylenesorbitan; GE Healthcare). VHH concentrations of IGF1R-4 were injected through the immobilized human IGF1R or insulin receptor (IR) and reference surfaces at a flow rate of 20 µl/min. The surfaces were regenerated with 10 mM glycine pH 2.0 with a contact time of 24 seconds. Data were analyzed using the BIAevaluation 4.1 software (GE Healthcare). The sensorgrams in Figure 3C show that the data fits well in a 1:1 model, generating KD and the “dissociations” shown in Table 1. This indicates that the IGF1R-3 VHH and the humanized variants are high-density single domain antibodies. affinity that bind to the extracellular domain of human and rat IGF1R. Table 1. Affinity of IGF1R-3 constructs for human IGF1R as determined by surface plasmon resonance.

[111] SPR analyzes were further used to demonstrate that IGF1R-3 VHH does not bind to the same epitope on the receptor as the natural ligand IGF-1 (Figure 3D). The experiment was defined, executed and analyzed as described above. Binding to a surface of freshly immobilized human IGF1R was studied by injection of human IGF1 at a concentration of 25xKD followed by co-injection of IGF1R-3 both at concentrations of 25xKD, with flow rates of 20 μl/min and injection times of 5 minutes. Surfaces were regenerated by washing with running buffer. Data were analyzed as described above. The natural ligand IGF-1 bound to the receptor with saturation reached 70RU; the IGF1R-3 VHH bound to the complex of IGF1R and IGF-1 with the expected ~265 RU (relative units; binding saturation). Simultaneous VHH binding of IGF1R-3 and IGF-1 to the receptor demonstrates that both bind to different epitopes.

[112] VHH cross-reactivity of IGF1R-3 binding to the human Insulin Receptor has also been assessed using SPR. The experiment was defined, executed and analyzed as described above. Briefly, in addition to human IGF1R, approximately 4000 Resonance Units (RU) of recombinant human Insulin Receptor (R&D systems) were immobilized in a separate cell on a CM5 sensory chip. Binding to freshly immobilized human Insulin Receptor and IGF1R was analyzed by injecting VHH of IGF1R-3 (1 nM), Insulin (100 nM) and human IGF1 (100 nM) at flow rates of 20 µl/min and 1 minute injection. Surfaces were regenerated by washing with running buffer. Although binding to IGF1R can be observed (Figure 3E marked by an asterisk *), no binding to the Insulin Receptor surface was observed, suggesting that IGF1R-3 cannot bind to the insulin receptor. As controls, IGF1 and insulin, the natural ligands of the two receptors flowed along the surfaces, and binding was detected as expected: IGF-1 bound to both receptors, whereas insulin binding could only be observed to the IGF-1 receptor. Insulin.

Example 7: Internalization of IGF1 R-3 by brain endothelial cells

[113] To determine whether IGF1R-3 is internalized into cells, svARBEC cells were incubated with IGF1R-3 labeled with Cy5-5.

[114] IGF1R-3 VHH has been identified with NHS-Cy5.5. Identification was done via a stable amine linkage between the primary amines (at the N-terminus and/or the lysine side chains of the protein) and the NHS ester. Typically, 10% v/v of 1M carbonate/bicarbonate buffer (759 mM bicarbonate, 258 mM carbonate) pH 9.3 was added to 4 mg of VHH prepared in PBS (1.06 mM KH2PO4, 1% NaCl 154 mM, 5.6 mM Na2HPO4) pH 7.4 and adjusted to a final concentration of 4 mg/ml. NHS-Cy5.5, dissolved in DMSO at 10 mg/ml, was added at a 2X molar ratio of dye to protein. The mixture was incubated at room temperature for 2 h with several inversions in a 1.5 ml microcentrifuge tube. After incubation, unbound dye and reaction by-products were filtered using Zeba Spin Desalination Hills, 7K MWCO (Pierce) and measured using a Beckman DU530 spectrophotometer (Beckman Coulter). IGF1R-3 identified with Cy5.5 or FC5 as a positive control (1 mg/ml) were incubated with SV40 immortalized mouse cerebral endothelial cells (svARBEC) at 4°C (Figure 4, upper panels), thus allowing only the passive non-specific transport mechanism to occur, or at 37 °C (Figure 4, lower panels) to allow active transport such as receptor-mediated endocytosis to occur. Staining with wheat germ agglutinin and DAPI was performed to visualize the cell surface and nucleus, respectively. Cells were observed under a fluorescent microscope, and images were captured.

[115] If incubated at 4 °C, IGF1R-3 was found outside of cells that colocalize with the cell membrane stained with wheat germ agglutinin. In contrast, when incubated at 37°C, IGF1R-3 accumulated in vesicles within cells, probably endosomes, suggesting that the antibody was internalized into cells through an active transport mechanism. A similar behavior was observed for FC5 which was previously shown to enter cells by energy-dependent endocytosis via clathrin-coated vesicles (Abulrob et al.2005).

Example 8: Production of an IGF1R-3-MFC construct

[116] A construct comprising IGF1R-3 VHH fused to a crystallizable murine antibody fragment (Fc; mFc2b) was prepared, expressed, and isolated. The sequence of the C-terminal IGF1R-3-mFc construct is shown in Figure 5A, with a schematic of the molecule shown in Figure 5B. The fusion protein (∼80 kDa) also comprised an N-terminal signal peptide (MEFGLSWVFLVAILKGVQC; SEQ ID NO:40) which is not shown in the sequence of Figure 5A.

[117] The IGF1R-3 cDNA was cloned into the mammalian expression vector pTT5 (Durocher, 2002) which contains the mouse Fc2b fragment. Polyplexes of the resulting vector were preformed by mixing 25 ml of plasmid DNA solution containing 187.5 µg pTT5-IR5mFc2b, 56.25 µg pTT-AKTdd (Activated Protein Kinase B mutant), 18.75 µg of pTTo-GFP (to monitor transfection efficiency) and 112.5 µg of DNA from salmon testes (Sigma-Aldrich); and 25 ml of PEI solution containing 1.125 mg of PEIproTM (PolyPlus Transfection), both made in F17 medium. The mixture was incubated for 10 minutes before addition to the cell culture. A 450 ml culture of CHO cells stably expressing a truncated EBNA1 protein (CHO-3E7) and grown in F17 medium (Invitrogen) was transfected with 50 ml polyplexes. Twenty-four hours after transfection, the culture was fed with 12.5 ml of 40% (w/v) tryptone N1 solution (Organotechnie) and 1.25 ml of 200 mM valproic acid solution. The culture was collected 8 days after transfection and clarified by centrifugation. The clarified medium was filtered through a 0.22 µm membrane before loading onto a column packed with 5 ml of MabSelect SuRe protein A resin (GE Healthcare). After loading, the column was washed with 5 volumes of phosphate buffered saline pH 7.1 (PBS), and the antibody was eluted with 100 mM sodium citrate buffer pH 3.0. Fractions containing the eluted antibody were pooled, and a buffer exchange was performed by loading onto an Econo-Pac Desalting Column (BioRad) equilibrated in PBS. The desalted antibody was then filter sterilized by passing it through a Millex GP (Millipore) filter unit (0.22 µm) and aliquoted.

Example 9: transport of IGF1R-3 and IGF1R-3MFC across the in vitro blood-brain barrier model

[118] To assess whether the IGF1R-3 VHH and the construct of Example 8 transmigrate the blood brain barrier, an in vitro assay was used as described below. A flowchart summarizing the experiment is shown in Figure 6A.

[119] SV40-immortalized Adult Rat Brain Endothelial Cells (Sv-ARBEC) were used to generate an in vitro blood brain barrier (BBB) model as described (Garberg et al., 2005; Haqqani et al., 2012). Sv-ARBEC (80,000 cells/membrane) were seeded onto 0.1 mg/ml tissue culture inserts coated with type I rat tail collagen (pore size - 1 µm; surface area 0.9 cm2, Falcon ) in 1 ml of growth medium. The lower chamber of the insert assembly contained 2 ml of growth medium supplemented with medium conditioned with immortalized neonatal rat astrocytes in a 1:1 (v/v) ratio. Equimolar amounts (5.6 µM) of positive (FC5) or negative controls (A20.1, a Clostridium difficile toxin A-binding VHH; and EG2, an EGFR-binding VHH) and IGF1R-3 were tested for its ability to cross this in vitro rat BBB model. After exposure of equimolar amounts of sdAbs to the luminal side of the BBB, samples were collected after 15, 30 and 60 min from the abluminal side. The sdAb content of each sample was then quantified by mass spectrometry (multiple reaction monitoring with isotype identified internal standards; MRM - ILIS) as described by Haqqani et al. (2012) (see method description below).

[120] Determination of the apparent permeability coefficient: The quantified values can be directly plotted, or the Papp values (apparent permeability coefficient) can be determined with the given formula (Figure 6A) and plotted. The Papp value is commonly used to determine the ability of a molecule to cross the BBB. [Qr/dt = cumulative amount in receiving compartment versus time; A = area of cell monolayer; CO = initial concentration of the dosing solution]. Papp values are a measure of the specific permeability of the compound across the cerebral endothelial monolayer.

[121] The results are shown in Figures 6B-D. The results given are the mean Papp values obtained from several independent experiments. Both negative controls have a very low Papp value, indicating that non-specific transport or paracellular transport of these VHHs through the BBB model is minimal. IGF1R-3 VHH has a high Papp value, indicating a high rate of transport through the in vitro BBB model. The Papp for IGF1R-3 VHH is approximately 3 times greater than that of a positive control - BBB-permeable VHH FC5 (WO 02/057445). The results provide a strong indication that IGF1R-3 undergoes facilitated transcellular transport across brain endothelial cells in vitro and could have similar properties in vivo. Humanized IGF1R-3 VHH variants H1, H2, H3 and H4 had 20 to 30% reduced Papp values compared to IGF1R3 VHH, whereas the H5 variant showed similar Papp values to IGF1-3 VHH (Figure 6C ).

[122] The Papp value for IGF1R-3mFc (Figure 6D) was significantly reduced compared to the IGF1R VHH, however, still 2.5 times greater than the Papp value of the positive control antibody, FC5 (Figure 6D) . The data suggest that the Fc-binding orientation of IGF1R-3 or bivalent format reduces its ability to cross the BBB compared to monomeric IGF1R-3. Of note, constructs comprising IGF1R-5 or a humanized version linked to a cargo molecule (MW ~110 kDa or 180 kDa) have also been shown to be transported across the BBB (data not shown).

[123] Absolute quantification of VHH using the MRM-ILIS method. Methods are all as described in Haqqani et al. (2012). Briefly, to develop SRM (selected reaction monitoring also known as multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) assay) for VHH, each VHH was first analyzed by nanoLC-MS/MS using data dependent acquisition to identify all ionizable peptides. For each peptide, the 3 to 5 most intense fragment ions were chosen. An initial SRM assay was developed to monitor these fragments at attomol amounts of the digest (about 100 to 300 amol). Fragments that showed reproducible intensity ratios at low amounts (ie, had Pearson r2 > 0.95 compared to higher amounts) were considered stable and were chosen for the final SRM assay. To further optimize the assay, elution times for each peptide were also included, taking care not to choose peptides that have narrow elution times and m/z (mass to charge ratio).

[124] A typical multiplexed SRM analysis of HCV in cellular media or body fluids (serum or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)) involved raising a known amount of ILIS (0.1 to 10 nM) followed by injection of 100 to 400 ng of CSF or cultured media proteins (0.3 to 1 µl) or about 50 to 100 ng of serum proteins (1 to 3 nanoliters) on the nanoLC-MS system. The precursor m/z of each target peptide ion was selected in the ion collector (and the remaining unrelated ions discarded) at the specified elution time for the target, followed by collision-induced dissociation fragmentation (CID) and selection only of the desired fragment ions into the ion collector for monitoring by the detector. For the quantitation analysis, the raw files generated by the LTQ (ThermoFisher) were converted into the standard mzXML mass spectrometry data format, and the intensities were extracted using an in-house software called Q-MRM (Quantitative MRM; see Haqqani et al. 2012), which is a modified version of the MatchRx software. For each VHH, extracted ion chromatograms were generated for each of its fragment ions that consisted of combined intensities within 0.25 Da of the fragment m/z over the entire elution time. To obtain a final intensity value for each fragment, all intensities within 0.5 min of the expected retention times were summed. A VHH was defined as detectable in a sample if fragments of at least one of its peptides showed the expected intensity ratios, i.e. the final intensity values showed a strong Pearson correlation r>0.95 and p<0.05 against the final intensity values of its corresponding pure VHH.

[125] Samples containing VHH mixtures (media, serum, CSF) were reduced, alkylated, and trypsin digested as previously described (Haqqani et al., 2012; Gergov et al., 2003). Digests (tryptic peptides) were acidified with acetic acid (5% final concentration) and analyzed on a reverse-phase nanoAcquity UPLC (Waters, Ilford, MA) coupled to an LTQ XL ETD or LTQ Orbitrap ETD mass spectrometer (ThermoFisher, Waltham , MA). The desired aliquot of the sample was injected and loaded into a 300 µm I.D. x 0.5 mm 3 μm PepMaps C18 (ThermoFisher) then eluted on a 100 I.D. x 10 cm 1.7 μm BEH130C18 nanoLC (Waters) using a gradient from 0% to 20% acetonitrile (in 0.1% formic) in 1 minute, 20% to 46% in 16 min and 46% at 95% in 1 min at a flow rate of 400 nl/min. The eluted peptides were ionized in the electrospray ionization mass spectrometer (ESI) for analysis by MS/MS and SRM with CID juice for fragmentation of the peptide ions. CID was performed with helium as the collision gas at a normalized collision energy of 35% and 30 ms activation time. The ion injection times in the linear ion collector were adjusted by the instrument using an automatic gain control (AGC) target value of 6 x 103 and a maximum accumulation time of 200 ms

[126] The VHH-specific peptides used for detection and quantification of each VHH in a multiplexed assay are shown in Table 2.Table 2. Peptides used in nanoLC-SRM detection of FC5, FC5-ILIS, EG2, A20. 1, IGF-1 R-5 and albumin. (a) In several studies described, the assays were multiplexed in different combinations for simultaneous monitoring in the same sample; (b) Peptide identified as heavy; (c) Limits of detection and quantification of the SRM assay for each peptide in the range of 1.5 to 2.5 ng/ml. 1 ng/ml corresponds to about 60 to 70 pM VHH. A20-1 as described in Hussack et al, 2011b; EG2 as described in Iqbal et al, 2010.

Example 10: IGF1R-3-MFC levels in CSF and plasma

[127] An in vivo assay was performed to determine whether IGF1R-3-mFc (Example 8) has the ability to cross into the brain and specifically into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), as well as to quantify its presence in CSF and serum. .

[128] The animals were housed alone in polypropylene cages and had free access to food and water. The experiments were carried out on a 12 h light/dark cycle at a temperature of 24 °C and a relative humidity of 50 ± 5%. All animal procedures were approved by the Animal Care Committee and were in accordance with the Canadian Board of Animal Care guidelines.

[129] 8 to 10 week old male Wistar rats (weight range, 230 to 250 g) were used. To sample the CSF, the hairs on the head and neck region of the animals were shaved, and the animals were then placed in a Plexiglas chamber and moderately anesthetized with 3% isoflurane; CSF was collected essentially as described by Nirogi et al (2009). The anesthetized rat was placed in a metal-framed instrument (kindly provided by Dr. Vinicio Granados-Soto; CINVESTAV, Mexico) and immobilized using ear bars. The animal's head position was maintained downward at approximately 45°. A pressing surface with the appearance of a diamond between the occipital protuberance and the column of the atlas was made visible by rubbing cotton soaked in ethanol (75%) over this surface. A 27G needle covered with PE-10 tubing (Becton Dickinson, Mississauga, ON, Canada) 10 cm long and connected to a 100 cm3 insulin syringe was inserted horizontally and centrally into the cisterna magna for CSF collection without making any incisions. . Two points of resistance (clicks) along the needle path can be easily felt, due to skin tearing and rupture of the atlanto-occipital membrane. When the needle passed the second point of resistance, CSF was collected (40 to 100 µl) through the needle by applying gentle suction from the insulin syringe. After CSF sampling, the corresponding blood was collected by cardiac puncture after thoracotomy and placed in vacutainer tubes (Becton Dickinson, Mississauga, ON, Canada) with clot activator and gel, and then centrifuged at 3,000xg for 15 min. Serum was removed using a micropipette and quickly frozen at -80 °C until further analysis.

[130] Serum and CSF were collected 24 h after intravenous injection of 6 mg/kg of IGF1R-3mFc or A20.1 mFc. Serum and CSF samples were analyzed by mass spectrometry and nanoLC-SRM based quantification as described in Example 7.

[131] CSF collection is a delicate procedure during which the CSF can easily become contaminated with blood. Since amounts of VHH are expected to be much lower in CSF (<0.1%) than in blood, even slight contamination with blood could seriously compromise the value of an individual CSF sample. It was therefore necessary to develop strict exclusion criteria for blood-contaminated CSF samples. To assess the blood albumin-CSF ratio, a nanoLC-SRM method was developed to quantify plasma albumin and CSF levels. An albumin peptide APQVSTPTLVEAAR (SEQ ID NO:38) was selected on the basis of its unique retention time and m/z value (Mol Pharm) in order to have minimal interference with the other peptide peaks in the multiplex assay. Peptide intensity was quantified in CSF and plasma samples with SRM swine as described above. The albumin ratio was calculated as follows for each mouse: Albumin Ratio = Intensity per nl of analyzed plasma / Intensity per nl of analyzed CSF A ratio of 1500 and less was considered as contaminated with blood.

[132] The results are shown in Figure 7. The Figure shows that the CSF levels of IGF1R-3Fc are 0.5% of serum levels compared to 0.04% of the A20.1 Fc control antibody. The negative control A20.1 Fc (75 kD) shows a serum/CSF ratio at 24 h similar to those described in the literature for molecules of similar size. The typical ratio of serum/CSF (lumbar) to albumin (60 kD) at steady state is 0.1% while the ratio of serum/CSF to IgG is 0.07 (Shen et al., 2004; Lin, 2008 ). The serum/CSF ratio of IGF1R3-Fc at 24 h is 11-fold greater than that for A20.1 mFc.

[133] Additional ~110 kDa constructs have also been shown to be transported across the BBB by IGF1R-3 or a humanized version (data not shown).

Example 11: conjugation of LGF1R-3 to galanin

[134] To determine whether IGF1R-3 VHH can cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in vivo and “shuttle” across the BBB a molecule that cannot cross the BBB alone, the neuropeptide Galanin was chemically conjugated to IGF1R-3 VHH and systemically managed. Galanin is a neuroactive peptide that produces analgesia through the binding of GalR1 and GalR2 expressed in brain tissue. When given peripherally, Galanin has no analgesic effect because it cannot cross the BBB on its own (Robertson et al., 2011).

[135] IGF1R-3 VHH was conjugated to a cysteamide-modified C-terminal rat Galanin (Gal) fragment (Biomatic) (GWTLNSAGYLLGPHAIDNHRSFSDKHGLT-cysteamide, SEQ ID NO:39). The scheme for conjugation is shown in Figure 8A.

[136] Briefly, 5 mg of IGF1R-3 VHH (Example 4) in 0.5X PBS, 2.5 mM EDTA at [2 mg/ml] was mixed with 436.4 µl of 2.5 mg/ml of sulfosuccinimidyl-4-(N-maleimidomethyl)cyclohexane-1-carboxylate (Sulfo-SMCC) (7.5x molar excess ratio). The mixture was then rinsed with nitrogen gas and incubated for 30 minutes at room temperature (RT) to allow the Sulfo-SMCC NHS ester arm to react with amines in the VHH. Subsequently, unreacted Sulfo-SMCC was removed from maleimide-activated IGF1R-5 VHH using a 10 ml 7K Zeba column (Pierce). Prior to sample loading, the column was washed 3 times with 5 ml of PBS and spun at 1000xg for 2 min. After sample loading, the column was filled with 200 µl of PBS and spun for 2 min at 1000xg. As for the IGF1R-Fc constructs, 5 mg were reacted with ~68 µl of Sulfo-SMCC (6.5x molar excess ratio) in the same manner as described above.

[137] Separately and concurrently, cysteamide-modified galanin C-TERM (Gal-cya) was prepared by dissolving 10 mg of lyophilized powder in 10 ml of endotoxin-free water to produce a 1 mg/ml stock (the galanin -cya powder has a small amount of DTT to prevent disulfide bridge formation during purification). Finally, 100 µl of 0.5 M EDTA was added (5 mM final concentration).

[138] Purified maleimide-activated IGF1R-3 VHH (2.6 ml) was diluted to 5 ml with 0.5X PBS, 2.5 mM EDTA, and then 5 ml of Gal-cya was added during the centrifugation. Samples were rinsed with nitrogen, sealed and incubated overnight at 4°C. The next day, unreacted Gal-cya was removed using the Amicon-15 10K and 30K column (Millipore), respectively. Samples were added to the column and spun at 4000xg for 7 minutes until the volume was reduced to 5 ml. 5 ml of 0.5X PBS, 2.5 mM EDTA was added to the 5 ml sample remaining in the column insert and spun again until the sample was reduced to 4 ml. The conjugated samples were then added to a 10 ml 7K Zeba column (Pierce), prepared as described above, and then spun for 2 min at 1000xg.

[139] The conjugated IGF1R-3-Gal samples were then run on a non-reducing 16% or 10% SDS-PAGE gel and silver stained to confirm the shift in molecular weight size after conjugation. The reaction was titrated to achieve ~1 to 2 galanin molecules per VHH. The results confirm the galanin load in the VHH of IGF1R-3 (see Figure 8B).

[140] Endotoxin Removal and Determination of Endotoxin Levels: Endotoxins were removed using Amicon Ultra molecular weight cut-off cellulose membrane spin columns (Millipore). First, 15 ml of the VHH preparation was passed through an Amicon-15-50K MWCO column by centrifugation at 4000xg for 10 minutes; the elution was collected. This elution was then added to an Amicon-15-10K MWCO column and spun at 4000xg for 7 to 10 minutes resulting in a reduction in supernatant volume from 15 ml to 7.5 ml. The volume of supernatant on the column was adjusted back to 15 ml by adding PBS. The column was spun again as described above. The supernatant was collected, and endotoxin levels were measured with the EndoSafe-PTS system using cartridges with a sensitivity range of 10 to 0.1 EU/ml (Charles River Laboratories International). 25 µl of sample was loaded into each of the 4 wells in the cartridge and diluted if necessary. Only samples with EU<1 per 1 mg were used for animal studies.

Example 12: transport of IGF1R-3-GAL using the Hargreaves model

[141] To assess whether IGF1R-3-Gal (Example 11) transmigrates the blood-brain barrier, an in vivo assay was used, previously described in International Patent Publication No. WO 2011/127580.

[142] A mouse model of inflammatory hyperalgesia, similar to that described by Hargreaves et al. (1988), was used. The animals were housed in groups of three (Hargreaves model) per polypropylene cage and had free access to food and water. The experiments were carried out on a 12 h light/dark cycle at a temperature of 24 °C and a relative humidity of 50 ± 5%. All animal procedures were approved by the Animal Care Committee and were in accordance with the Canadian Council on Animal Care Guidelines.

[143] In this model, male Wistar rats aged 6 to 8 weeks (weight range 230 to 250 g) were injected with a low volume (100 µl with a 30-gauge needle) complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA; M. tuberculosis heat-killed (Sigma) suspended in a 1:1 emulsion of oil and saline) in the right hind paw under brief isoflurane anesthesia (3%). CFA induces the release of pro-inflammatory substances that activate nociceptors and create a state of chronic pain and hyperalgesia (a heightened sensitivity to noxious heat). Paw withdrawal latency was measured by applying a radiant stimulus to the plantar surface of both hind paws (non-inflamed and inflamed control paw) using the Plantar Analgesia Meter for paw stimulation equipment (IITC Model No. 336TG LifeScience, Inc.). The time taken by the animal to respond by licking or touching its paw was interpreted as the positive response (paw withdrawal latency). The light intensity lamp was adjusted to obtain baseline paw withdrawal latencies between 17 to 20 s on both hindpaws prior to CFA administration. If a withdrawal response did not occur within 20 s, the light beam was automatically turned off to prevent tissue damage, and the paw was assigned the maximum score.

[144] Two days after CFA injection and before compound administration, the animals were manipulated and acclimatized in the analgesia measuring equipment for at least 60 min in order to reduce stress and prevent false positive responses. Baseline was measured in both paws to check for developed pain (thermal hyperalgesia); the non-inflamed paw was used as a control against the injected paw. Animals with paw withdrawal latency greater than 6 s for the “inflamed paw” and less than 17 s for the “normal paw” were excluded from the experiment.

[145] To determine whether IGF1R-3-Gal is delivered across the blood-brain barrier and can engage target receptors (GalR1 and 2) in the brain parenchyma, mice received a tail vein injection of IGF1R-3-Galanine (2, 93 mg/kg or 5.85 mg/kg; endotoxin EU<1) or control compounds three days after CFA injection. Paw withdrawal latency (PWL) was tested for each hindpaw (inflamed and non-inflamed) every 15 min for 3 hours. An increased paw withdrawal latency successfully indicates the induction of analgesia that can only be achieved through successful delivery of Galanin to the brain parenchyma by IGF1R-3. Galanin can only induce analgesia when present in the brain parenchyma and alone cannot cross an intact BBB (Robertson et al., 2011).

[146] Results were analyzed as transient courses of Paw Withdrawal Latencies (PWL, sec) versus time (min or h) (Figure 9A). Figure 9B shows the same results as area under the curve (AUC) and compares it to % Maximum Possible Effect (% MPE). Figure 9C shows that repeated injection of the same dose of IGF1R3-Galanine, 1 hour after the analgesic response of the first injection has ended, produces an analgesic response similar to the first injection.

[147] Results show that intravenously administered galanin does not reduce pain compared to PBS. In contrast, a single injection of FC5-Gal or IGF1R3-Gal produces a measurable analgesic effect, suggesting that this VHH "shuttles" Galanin across the BBB to produce an analgesic effect by binding to GalR1 and/or 2 in the brain parenchyma. . The effect of IGF1R-3-Gal is dose-dependent and significantly more pronounced than that induced by FC5-Gal, suggesting that the IGF1R receptor has a higher rate of BBB transport than the putative FC5 receptor. Repeated dosing produces a similar analgesic response, suggesting a rapid "turnover" of the IGF1R carrier receptor. The results demonstrate that IGF1R-3 VHH can "carry" molecules of at least 3000 Da across the BBB using the receptor-mediated transcytosis pathway (the combined MW of the antibody and peptide conjugate is about 18 kDa). Active receptor-mediated transport is required as the BBB is known to prevent the passage of all hydrophilic molecules larger than 0.5 kDa.

Example 13: Immunodetection of IGF1R-3-MFC

[148] To ensure that the high levels of IGF1R-3FC detected in CSF after peripheral administration originate at least in part from the parenchymal extracellular space, in other words, that the intact construct has crossed the BBB, immunodetection of IGF1R-3 -mFc in rat brains was performed.

[149] Briefly, animal brains were collected immediately after perfusing the animals with PBS 24 h after tail vein injection of 6 mg/kg of IGF1R-3-mFc or A20.1 mFc. The brains were frozen and sectioned in the cryotome into 12 μm sections. Sections were fixed for 10 min at RT in 100% Methanol, washed 3x in PBS and incubated for 1 h in 10% normal goat serum (NGS) containing 0.3% TritonX-100 in 1x PBS. Goat anti-m-IgG FcY-cy3 (catalog # 115-165-071, Jackson Immuno Reasearch, lot # 106360) 1:200 in 5% NGS containing 0.3% TritonX-100 in 1XPBS was applied overnight at 4 °C. Sections were washed three times in 1x PBS. Vasculature stain RCAI lectin (catalog # FL-1081, Vector) 1:500 in 1x PBS was then added for 10 min. After washing three times with 1x PBS, the sections were covered with a coverslip in Dako fluorescent mounting medium (Cat No. S3023, Dako) and elevated with 2 µg/ml Hoechst (Cat No. H3570, Invitrogen) to stain the cores. Images were captured with the Olympus 1X81 Fluorescent Microscope using 10X and 60X Objectives and channels as shown in Table 3.Table 3. Objectives and channels used for fluorescent microscopy.

[150] The results are shown in Figure 10. Immunodetection of mouse Fc showed strong staining of cerebral vessels throughout different brain regions, as well as staining of perivascular brain parenchyma, indicating that IGF1R-3Fc is accumulated in vessels and also transmigrated the BBB into the surrounding brain parenchyma. In contrast, no mFc-specific staining could be detected in animals injected with A20.1 mFc. The results support the contention that increased CSF levels of IGF1R-3Fc are indicative of construct transmigration across the BBB. This is further and strongly supported by the observation that galanin bound to IGF1R-3 induced a pharmacological response (analgesia) in parenchymal GalR1 and GalR2 receptors. Collectively, in vitro BBB transmigration results and in vivo pharmacokinetic (serum/CSF levels) and pharmacodynamic (Hargreaves model) results demonstrate that IGF1R-3 VHH transmigrates the intact BBB at significantly higher rates than other VHHs through active receptor-mediated transcytosis activated by its binding to IGF1R epitopes and that it can "transport" a range (1 to 80 kD) of otherwise non-permeable molecules across the blood-brain barrier.

Example 14: Effect of IGF1R-3 on “physiological” function of LGF1R

[151] From a safety perspective, it is important to show that the antibody of the invention does not interfere with the physiological function of the receptor - i.e., the signaling induced by its natural ligand, IGF-1 - by engaging its receptor for delivery via receptor-mediated transcytosis. In view of this, it is important to demonstrate that IGF1R-3 VHH or IGF1R-3-mFc does not interfere with physiological signaling through the IGF1R or related insulin receptor (IR) induced by its natural ligands.

[152] To determine whether IGF1R-3 induces signaling through IGF1R or IR alone or interferes with signaling as stimulated by the receptor's natural ligands, IGF-1 or insulin, its effect on phosphorylation of the receptors themselves or downstream kinase stimulated by receptor, Akt, was determined in SV-ARBEC cells.

[153] SV-ARBEC were grown to confluence in M199 base medium supplemented with peptone, D-glucose, BME amino acids, BME vitamins, antibiotic/antimycotic solution, and fetal bovine serum, according to methods known in the art. Cells were switched in serum-free medium 18 h before treatment. IGF1R-3 VHH fusion or IGF1R-3-Fc (100 nM or 500 nM) was added to the cells 1 h before addition of 200 µg/ml IGF-1, 10 µg/ml insulin or vehicle. Cells were incubated with ligands or vehicle for 20 minutes and then washed twice in Hank's balanced salt solution. Cells were subsequently lysed using 1x RIPA buffer (Cell Signaling Technology) supplemented with protease inhibitor cocktail and 1% Triton-x 100 (Sigma). Cells received 2 x 20 second bursts in a water bath sonicator, and lysates were cleared by centrifugation at 14,000 rpm for 10 minutes. Protein concentration was determined using the DC protein assay system (BIO-RAD laboratories). Equal µg of protein samples were separated on a 4 to 20% gradient SDS polyacrylamide gel at 125 V and transferred to the PVDF membrane. Phospho-Akt (Ser 473) was detected by incubation overnight in a 1:1000 dilution of the primary antibody against this target (Cell Signaling Technology) followed by a 1 h incubation with secondary anti-rabbit IgG-HRP antibody from goat then reacted with ECL Plus reagent and visualized on autoradiography film. Densitometry values were determined using the Un-Scan-lt software (Silk Scientific Inc.).

[154] The results are shown in Figure 11. Western blot analyzes of Akt phosphorylation showed that IGF1-3 did not inhibit Akt phosphorylation induced by either 10 µg/ml insulin or 200 µg/ml IGF-1 when co-applied with IGF1R-3 or 100 nM IGF1-3-mFc or 500 nM IGF1R-3-mFc. Neither VHH nor Fc fusions induced Akt signaling by themselves (Figure 11A, 11B and 11C, labeled “-5”). The results demonstrated that even in bivalent display in the Fc fusion format, IGF1R-3 does not trigger receptor dimerization and downstream signaling and therefore does not interfere with receptor function in the presence of the natural ligand. This feature of IGF1R-3 (“silent ligand”) is important for its application as a BBB carrier for therapeutic products, as it confers a favorable safety profile.

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Claims (10)

1. Single domain antibody (sdAb), isolated or purified, or fragment thereof, which binds to antigen, characterized in that it comprises: a sequence of complementarity determining region (CDR) 1 from EYPSNFYA (SEQ ID NO:1 ); a CDR2 sequence from VSRDGLTT (SEQ ID NO:2); and a CDR3 sequence from AIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHY (SEQ ID NO:3), wherein the antigen-binding antibody fragment is specific for Insulin-Like Growth Factor Receptor 1 (IGF1R). 2. Single domain antibody (sdAb), isolated or purified, or fragment thereof, which binds to the antigen, according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises the sequence X1VX2LX3ESGGGLVQX4GGSLRLSCX5ASEYPSNFYAMSWX6RQAPGK X7X8EX9VX10GVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTX11SRDNX12KNTX13X14LQ MNSX15X16A EDTAVYYCAIVITGVWNKVDVNSRSYHYWGQGTX17VTVSS (SEQ ID NO:4), where X1 is E or Q; X2 is K or Q; X3 is V or E; X4 is A or P; X5 is V or A; X6 is F or V; X7 is E or G; X8 is R or L; X9 is F or W; X10 is A or S; X11 is M or I; X12 is A or S; X13 is V or L; X14 is D or Y; X15 is V or L; X16 is K or R; and X17 is Q or L. 3. Single domain antibody (sdAb), isolated or purified, or fragment thereof, which binds to antigen, according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises a sequence selected from the group consisting of: QVKLEESGGGLVQAGGSLRLSCVASEYPSNFYAMSWFRQAPGKEREF VAGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTMSRDNAKNTVDLQMNSVKAEDTAVYYCAIVITG VWNKVDVNSRS YHYWGQGTQVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:5); EVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWVRQAPGKGLE WVSGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTISRDNSKNTLYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYCAIVITG VWNKVDVNSRS YHYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:6); QVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWVRQAPGKGLE WVAGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTMSRDNSKNTVYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYCAIVIT GVWNKVDVNSR SYHYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:7); QVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWFRQAPGKGLE FVAGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTMSRDNSKNTVYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYCAIVIT GVWNKVDVNSRS YHYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:8); QVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWFRQAPGKERE FVAGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTMSRDNSKNTVYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYCAIVIT GVWNKVDVNSR SYHYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:9); EVQLVESGGGLVQPGGSLRLSCAASEYPSNFYAMSWFRQAPGKEREF VSGVSRDGLTTLYADSVKGRFTISRDNSKNTLYLQMNSLRAEDTAVYYCAIVITGV WNKVDVNSRSY HYWGQGTLVTVSS (SEQ ID NO:10); and/or a sequence substantially identical thereto. 4. Single domain antibody (sdAb), isolated or purified, or fragment thereof, which binds to the antigen, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the antibody fragment which binds to the antigen is in a multivalent display format. 5. Single domain antibody (sdAb), isolated or purified, or fragment thereof, which binds to the antigen, according to claim 4, characterized in that the antibody fragment which binds to the antigen is linked to a fragment Fc. 6. Single domain antibody (sdAb), isolated or purified, or fragment thereof, which binds to antigen, according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the single domain antibody (sdAb), isolated or purified, or fragment thereof, which binds to antigen, transmigrates the blood-brain barrier. 7. Single domain antibody (sdAb), isolated or purified, or fragment thereof, which binds to antigen, according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the antibody or fragment thereof, which binds to antigen, is attached to a cargo molecule. 8. Single domain antibody (sdAb), isolated or purified, or fragment thereof, which binds to antigen, according to claim 7, characterized in that the load molecule has a molecular weight in the range of 1 kD to 200 kDa, and/or is selected from the group consisting of a detectable agent, a therapeutic, a drug, a peptide, a growth factor, a cytokine, a receptor trap, a chemical compound, a carbohydrate chemical moiety , an enzyme, an antibody or fragment thereof, a DNA-based molecule, a viral vector or a cytotoxic agent; one or more liposomes or nanocarriers loaded with a detectable agent, a therapeutic, a drug, a peptide, an enzyme, an antibody or fragment thereof, a DNA-based molecule, a viral vector or a cytotoxic agent; or one or more nanoparticles, nanowires, nanotubes or quantum dots. 9. Composition characterized by the fact that it comprises one or more than one single domain antibody (sdAb), isolated or purified, or fragment thereof, which binds to antigen, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 8, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, diluent or excipient. 10. In vitro method for detecting insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF1R) or IGF1R expression, characterized in that it comprises a) bringing a tissue sample into contact with one or more single domain antibodies ( sdAb), isolated or purified, or fragment thereof, which binds antigen, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 6, linked to a detectable agent; and b) detecting the detectable agent bound to the antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof bound to the IGF1R in the tissue sample.