Exploring the nanobody patent landscape: a focus on BCMA sequences and structural analysis

Nanobodies (Nbs) are antigen-binding fragments derived from unique heavy-chain-only antibodies. In recent years, the development of Nbs has progressed rapidly due to their therapeutic potential. Here we present a comprehensive patent landscape of Nb technologies, focusing on uncovering innovation trends, identifying novel drug candidates, and analyzing opportunities and challenges for research, development, and commercialization. Using B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) as an example drug target, we summarize the features, physicochemical properties, modification sites, and epitope-binding tendencies of patented sequences of Nb drugs, highlighting the importance of structural-level patent protection, and offering a theoretical foundation for Nb design and experimental validation. Through patent landscape and patent sequence analysis, our study provides valuable insights for Nb drug development and supports decision-making in patent strategy.