Structural immunotherapy: Harnessing chemical design to build powerful next-generation therapeutics

M Michelle H. Teplensky (Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University) J Julianna N. Bourgeois (Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Graduate Program, Northwestern University) S Sergej Kudruk (International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University) S Sarah Hurst Petrosko (International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University) C Chad A. Mirkin

Abstract

Structural immunotherapy relies on the structural features of immunotherapeutics in addition to component identity to influence biodistribution, intra- or extracellular localization, target engagement, and processing kinetics. This strategy is poised to redefine how immunotherapeutics mobilize immunity against disease and transform our ability to harness structure–function relationships to enhance clinical outcomes.

Article Details

Volume / Issue Vol. 122, Issue 45
Published November 11, 2025
ISSN 0027-8424
Publisher National Academy of Sciences

Authors (5)

M

Michelle H. Teplensky

Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University

J

Julianna N. Bourgeois

Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Graduate Program, Northwestern University

S

Sergej Kudruk

International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University

S

Sarah Hurst Petrosko

International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University

C

Chad A. Mirkin