Technical decision-making with higher order structure data: starting a new dialogue.

Characterization of the higher order structure (HOS) of biological products has been growing in importance in recent years. Scientists in the biopharmaceutical industry, academic researchers, and regulators are all increasingly aware of the critical role that HOS plays in maintaining the stability and intended biological function of biopharmaceutical products. We organized a consortium of scientists and researchers from industry and academic institutions to address how HOS data can be used most effectively to drive decisions during product development. In this commentary, we introduce the purpose, objectives, and scope of the consortium and then provide some brief points to consider in the context of characterizing HOS of biopharmaceutical products. Scientific advances in HOS analysis, as well as continued dialogue among academia, industry, and regulatory agencies will ensure that appropriate methodologies are used to inform technical decision-making during biopharmaceutical development.