CoreTIA: a modular, statistically robust transduction inhibition assay for AAV neutralization

Abstract

Adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy is often limited by pre-existing neutralizing antibodies (NAbs), yet current assays for NAb detection lack standardization and rarely quantify uncertainty, complicating cross-study comparisons. We present coreTIA (core Transduction Inhibition Assay), a modular experimental protocol combined with a statistically robust analysis pipeline that delivers precise, reproducible NAb titers with quantified uncertainty for every result. coreTIAs statistical framework enables robust estimation of neutralization even when dilution series are incomplete, helping to reduce repeat testing and minimizing sample volume requirements. Evaluation and refinement of key assay parameters support consistent performance across AAV serotypes. By providing a protocol and analysis suite as an open resource, coreTIA facilitates more consistent and transparent NAb measurement, potentially aiding assay harmonization and regulatory assessment, addressing a key barrier to progress in gene therapy research and development.