Synthetic pH-responsive proteins could deliver biologics via endosomal escape

A study from David Baker's lab described de novo proteins engineered to selectively disrupt endosomal membranes, opening the door to synthetic delivery vehicles that could one day replace viral vectors.

The challenge of delivering biologics into cells has stymied drug developers for decades. Viral vectors provide a workaround, but are hampered by risks such as pre-existing immunity in patients (see “Breaking the Barrier”)...