NIH Licenses New Antibody to Spot Immune Cell Proteins
Published Date: 6/1/2026
Notice
Summary
The National Institutes of Health just announced a cool new antibody called 18H2 that helps scientists spot a key protein in immune cells that keep us healthy. This invention is ready for companies to license and turn into real products, speeding up research and treatments for autoimmune diseases. If you’re interested, now’s the time to reach out and get the details—money and timing depend on your licensing deal!
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Antibody 18H2 Available For Licensing
The NIH/NIAID has made monoclonal antibody 18H2 (HHS Ref. No. E-104-2025-0) available for licensing for commercial development under 35 U.S.C. 209 and 37 CFR part 404. If you are a company or research group, you can contact Yogikala Prabhu (tel. 202-365-4785 or [email protected]) to inquire about licensing.
Collaborative Research Opportunities Offered
NIAID is actively seeking statements of capability or interest for collaborative research to further develop, evaluate, or commercialize 18H2, including use in pre-clinical models, diagnostic assay development, and high-throughput screening. Interested parties should contact Yogikala Prabhu at 202-365-4785 or [email protected].
Enables Development of Diagnostic Tests
The 18H2 antibody can be used to develop tests that track regulatory T cell (Treg) function and Eos protein levels in patients to monitor autoimmune diseases, cancer treatments, and organ transplants. Companies and labs could use this technology to build diagnostic assays and immune-monitoring tools.
Technology Is at Pre-Clinical Stage
The 18H2 antibody is described as being at the 'Pre-Clinical' development stage. That means the technology has been validated in laboratory settings but has not yet reached clinical trials or market-ready status.
Confidential Disclosure Agreement Required
A signed Confidential Disclosure Agreement (CDA) is required to receive copies of unpublished information related to the 18H2 invention. Parties must sign the CDA before NIH/NIAID will provide unpublished technical details.
Foreign Patent Filings May Extend Coverage
The notice states that foreign patent applications are filed on selected inventions to extend market coverage and may also be available for licensing. This can affect the geographic scope of licensing rights for 18H2.
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