Analytical and Functional Similarity of the Biosimilar Candidate ABP 654 to Ustekinumab Reference Product

Background and Objective ABP 654 is a proposed biosimilar to ustekinumab reference product (RP), a human immunoglobulin isotype class G subclass 1 kappa monoclonal antibody that acts as an antagonist of interleukin (IL)-23 and IL-12. Ustekinumab RP is indicated for the treatment of some forms of plaque psoriasis, active psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. ABP 654 and ustekinumab RP utilize different expression systems, and the purpose of this study was to assess analytical similarity between ABP 654 and ustekinumab RP sourced from the United States (US) and the European Union (EU). Methods The analytical testing plan included general properties, primary structure, higher-order structure, product-related substances and impurities, particles and aggregates, biological activity, and thermal stability and degradation studies. Results ABP 654 was found to be analytically similar to ustekinumab RP with respect to physicochemical and biological properties, including structure, function, purity, and potency. Conclusions Based on a comprehensive similarity assessment, ABP 654 was found to be similar to ustekinumab RP, notwithstanding minor physicochemical differences that are not expected to have a clinically meaningful effect on safety or efficacy.