SAB Biotherapeutics Inc, commonly known as SAB Biotherapeutics or SAB, is a biotechnology company based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA. The company was founded in 2014 by Dr. Eddie Sullivan and Dr. Larry Schlesinger. SAB's unique approach involves utilizing genetically engineered cattle to produce human antibodies rapidly and in large quantities. These antibodies are then used for therapeutic purposes, particularly in the treatment of infectious diseases and other medical conditions.
SAB's platform, known as the "DiversitAb" system, harnesses the natural immune response of cows to generate fully human polyclonal antibodies. The company has developed a proprietary technology called "Immunoglobulin-Gene Transgenic" (IG-GT) cattle, which enables the rapid production of specific human antibodies. This approach eliminates the need for traditional antibody production methods, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
The company's technology has shown promise in the treatment of various infectious diseases, including COVID-19. SAB has developed a COVID-19 therapeutic candidate called "SAB-185," which is derived from the plasma of immunized cows and contains high levels of human antibodies targeting SARS-CoV-2. The company's innovative platform also holds potential for the treatment of other diseases, such as influenza, Ebola, and more.