Framework (FR)-patching is a novel approach to modify immunoglobulin for
reducing potential immunogenicity without significant alterations in
specificity and affinity. Unlike previous described methods of
humanization, which graft CDRs from a donor onto the frameworks of a
single acceptor immunoglobulin, we patch segments of framework (FR1, FR2,
FR3, and FR4), or FRs, to replace the corresponding FRs of the parent
immunoglobulin. Free assortment of these FRs from different
immunoglobulins and from different species can be mixed and matched into
forming the final immunoglobulin chain. A set of criteria in the choice
of these FRs to minimize or eliminate the need to reintroduce framework
amino acids from the parent immunoglobulin for patching is described. The
approach gives greater flexibility in the choice of framework sequences,
minimizes the need to include parent framework amino acids, and, most
importantly, reduces the chances of creating new T- and B-cell epitopes
in the resultant immunoglobulin.