CD137 Antibody Market, Global Outlook and Forecast 2025-2032

MARKET INSIGHTS

Global CD137 Antibody market size was valued at USD 450 million in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 490 million in 2025 to USD 1,066 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 13.4% during the forecast period.

CD137 Antibodies are immunotherapeutic agents targeting the CD137 protein, a key immune checkpoint molecule primarily expressed on activated T cells and natural killer cells. These antibodies work by binding to CD137 (also known as 4-1BB), stimulating T-cell proliferation and enhancing anti-tumor immune responses. This mechanism makes them particularly valuable in cancer immunotherapy applications.

The market growth is driven by increasing R&D in immuno-oncology, with CD137 emerging as a promising target for combination therapies. While the sector shows strong potential, challenges remain in managing immune-related adverse effects. Major pharmaceutical companies are actively developing CD137-targeted therapies, with several candidates currently in clinical trials. The field is seeing significant investment, particularly in bispecific antibodies that combine CD137 targeting with other immunomodulatory approaches.

MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS

Rising Prevalence of Cancer to Accelerate CD137 Antibody Market Growth

The global increase in cancer incidence is driving significant demand for immunotherapies like CD137 antibodies. With over 20 million new cancer cases reported annually worldwide, oncology research is prioritizing immune checkpoint inhibitors and T-cell activation therapies. CD137 agonists show particular promise in clinical trials, with response rates exceeding 40% in certain solid tumor indications when combined with existing therapies. The expanding oncology therapeutic landscape, particularly for difficult-to-treat cancers like melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer, continues to create substantial opportunities for CD137 antibody development.

Advancements in Immunotherapy Research Fuel Market Expansion

Recent breakthroughs in understanding T-cell co-stimulation pathways have positioned CD137 as a high-potential target for next-generation immunotherapies. Research indicates that CD137 activation enhances cytotoxic T-cell responses while reducing T-cell exhaustion - a critical limitation of current immunotherapies. Pharmaceutical companies are investing heavily in combination therapies, with over 30 clinical trials currently evaluating CD137 antibodies alongside PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. These combination approaches demonstrate superior efficacy compared to monotherapies, with some trials showing a 2-3 fold improvement in progression-free survival rates.

➤ For instance, recent phase Ib clinical data showed that urelumab combined with nivolumab achieved durable responses in approximately 35% of patients with advanced solid tumors who had previously failed checkpoint inhibitor therapy.

Furthermore, the growing pipeline of bispecific antibodies incorporating CD137 targeting domains highlights the versatility of this immune pathway. Several companies are advancing CD137/CD3 bispecific antibodies that show potent anti-tumor activity while potentially reducing systemic toxicity compared to traditional CD137 agonist antibodies.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Hepatic Toxicity Concerns Limit Therapeutic Development

Despite the therapeutic potential, CD137 agonists face significant safety challenges that restrain market growth. Early clinical trials of first-generation CD137 antibodies like urelumab reported dose-limiting liver toxicity in up to 25% of participants, leading to partial clinical holds. These adverse events stem from the broad expression of CD137 on multiple immune cell populations, potentially causing systemic immune hyperactivation. Such safety concerns have forced developers to explore alternative approaches like tumor-targeted delivery or lower potency antibodies, significantly extending development timelines and costs.

Other Restraints

High Development Costs
The complexity of developing safe and effective CD137-targeting therapies requires substantial investment in preclinical and clinical research. Average development costs for an immunotherapy drug currently exceed 500 million, with CD137 candidates facing additional expenses for safety optimization and combination therapy studies.

Competition from Other Immunomodulatory Targets
The crowded landscape of immune checkpoint inhibitors presents challenges for CD137 antibody differentiation. With over 15 different co-stimulatory and inhibitory pathways in clinical development, CD137 therapies must demonstrate clear advantages over more established targets to gain market traction.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Biological Complexity Creates Clinical Development Hurdles

The intricate biology of CD137 signaling presents multiple challenges for therapeutic antibody development. Unlike simple checkpoint blockade, CD137 agonism requires precise tuning of receptor clustering and signal strength to achieve optimal immune activation without toxicity. This complexity has led to variable outcomes in clinical trials, with some candidates showing minimal activity despite promising preclinical data. Additionally, the lack of reliable biomarkers to predict response makes patient selection and trial design particularly challenging for CD137-targeted therapies.

Other Challenges

Manufacturing Complexity
Producing consistent, high-quality CD137 antibodies requires sophisticated manufacturing capabilities. The need for precise glycosylation patterns and proper Fc engineering to achieve desired agonistic activity adds significant complexity to production processes compared to conventional monoclonal antibodies.

Intellectual Property Constraints
The competitive landscape has led to overlapping patent claims covering CD137 antibody structures and methods of use. These IP challenges can delay development programs and increase legal risks for market entrants.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Novel Engineering Approaches Open New Therapeutic Possibilities

Emerging antibody engineering technologies are creating fresh opportunities in the CD137 space. Next-generation constructs such as conditionally active biotherapeutics and tumor microenvironment-targeted antibodies are showing promise in preclinical studies. These approaches aim to maximize therapeutic efficacy while minimizing systemic toxicity - a key limitation of current CD137 agonists. Companies are particularly focused on developing antibodies with reduced Fc receptor binding to prevent liver toxicity while maintaining anti-tumor activity.

Expansion into Autoimmune Applications Presents Untapped Potential

While oncology dominates current development, emerging research suggests potential applications for CD137 modulation in autoimmune diseases. Preclinical models indicate that CD137 antagonists may help restore immune tolerance in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. The global autoimmune disease treatment market represents a significant expansion opportunity, particularly as understanding of the dual roles of CD137 in immune activation and regulation continues to evolve.

Segment Analysis:

By Type

Monoclonal Antibody Segment Dominates Due to High Specificity in Immunotherapy Research

The market is segmented based on type into:

• Monoclonal Antibody

  • Subtypes: Humanized, Chimeric, and others

• Polyclonal Antibody

By Application

Immunotherapy Research Leads Due to Expanding Cancer Treatment Applications

The market is segmented based on application into:

• Flow Cytometry

• ELISA

• Immunoprecipitation

• Others (including Western Blotting)

By End User

Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies Drive Market Growth Through R&D Investments

The market is segmented based on end user into:

• Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies

• Academic & Research Institutes

• Hospitals & Diagnostic Centers

• Contract Research Organizations

By Distribution Channel

Direct Sales Channel Maintains Dominance Through Strong Manufacturer Relationships

The market is segmented based on distribution channel into:

• Direct Sales

• Distributors

• Online Platforms

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Innovation and Strategic Partnerships Drive Competition in CD137 Antibody Market

The global CD137 antibody market features a dynamic competitive landscape with both established biotech giants and emerging specialty players vying for market share. Thermo Fisher Scientific maintains a dominant position, leveraging its comprehensive antibody portfolio and extensive distribution network across research institutions and pharmaceutical companies worldwide. The company captured an estimated 18% market share in 2024 through continuous product innovation and strategic acquisitions.

Chinese firm Sino Biological, Inc. has emerged as a formidable competitor, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, by offering cost-effective CD137 antibody solutions without compromising quality. Meanwhile, Bio-Techne and BioLegend have strengthened their positions through specialized antibody development programs targeting immunotherapy applications, collectively accounting for nearly 15% of the market.

The market has witnessed accelerated competition following recent FDA approvals for CD137-targeting immunotherapies. Merck KGaA and Bio-Rad Laboratories are responding with increased R&D investments in bispecific antibodies and companion diagnostics, signaling a strategic shift toward integrated therapeutic solutions rather than standalone research antibodies.

Emerging players like Wuhan Fine Biotech and Elabscience Biotechnology are disrupting traditional pricing models with competitively priced alternatives, particularly in developing markets. However, quality concerns and limited global distribution networks constrain their market penetration compared to Western counterparts.

List of Key CD137 Antibody Companies Profiled

• Thermo Fisher Scientific (U.S.)

• Sino Biological, Inc. (China)

• Bio-Techne (U.S.)

• BioLegend (U.S.)

• Abcam (UK)

• Merck KGaA (Germany)

• Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (U.S.)

• Cell Signaling Technology, Inc. (U.S.)

• Miltenyi Biotec (Germany)

CD137 ANTIBODY MARKET TRENDS

Immunotherapy Advancements Driving CD137 Antibody Market Growth

The global CD137 antibody market is experiencing robust growth, driven primarily by advancements in immunotherapy and rising oncology research investments. CD137 (4-1BB), a co-stimulatory receptor expressed on immune cells, has emerged as a promising target for cancer immunotherapy. Recent clinical trials investigating combinations of CD137 antibodies with checkpoint inhibitors like PD-1/PD-L1 blockers have shown enhanced T-cell activation and tumor suppression rates. The first half of 2024 alone saw eight new CD137-targeted therapies enter phase II clinical trials, reflecting strong pipeline momentum. While North America currently leads in clinical research, Asia-Pacific markets are accelerating development with a 22% year-over-year increase in biopharma R&D spending on immuno-oncology.

Other Trends

Expansion into Autoimmune Disease Applications

Beyond oncology, researchers are exploring CD137 antibodies for treating autoimmune disorders, creating new market opportunities. Early-stage studies suggest that modulating CD137 signaling could help restore immune balance in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. This diversification reduces therapeutic area concentration risk while expanding the total addressable market. Approximately 18% of current CD137 antibody research now targets non-oncology indications, with an anticipated five-year CAGR of 17.2% for these emerging applications.

Biosimilar Development and Manufacturing Scale-Up

The market is witnessing increased focus on biosimilar CD137 antibodies and manufacturing optimization to improve accessibility. While originator biologics still dominate, three major biotech firms announced biosimilar development programs in Q1 2024. Meanwhile, contract manufacturers are adopting continuous bioprocessing for CD137 antibodies, achieving 30-40% reductions in production costs. However, the complexity of glycosylation patterns in these therapies presents ongoing quality control challenges that innovative analytics platforms are beginning to address through AI-driven process monitoring solutions.

Regional Analysis: CD137 Antibody Market

North America
North America dominates the CD137 antibody market, accounting for the largest revenue share due to robust investments in cancer immunotherapy research and advanced healthcare infrastructure. The region benefits from strong regulatory frameworks from the FDA, which accelerate clinical adoption of immunotherapies, including CD137-targeted treatments. Key pharmaceutical hubs in the U.S., such as Boston and San Francisco, are driving innovation, supported by collaborations between biotech firms and academic institutions. However, high costs associated with antibody development and stringent validation processes pose challenges for smaller players. The presence of major market players like BioLegend and Thermo Fisher further strengthens North America’s competitive edge.

Europe
Europe is a significant market for CD137 antibodies, propelled by increasing government funding for oncology research and well-established biotechnology industries in countries like Germany and the U.K. The region’s regulatory environment, guided by the EMA, emphasizes stringent quality control, fostering demand for high-purity antibodies. Growth is also driven by rising clinical trials exploring CD137’s potential in treating autoimmune diseases and cancers. However, pricing pressures from national healthcare systems and fragmented reimbursement policies across the EU may limit commercialization opportunities for novel therapies. Leading companies such as Bio-Techne and Miltenyi Biotec continue to influence market dynamics through innovation.

Asia-Pacific
The Asia-Pacific CD137 antibody market is the fastest-growing region, fueled by rising cancer prevalence and improving biopharmaceutical infrastructure in China and India. Government initiatives, such as China’s 14th Five-Year Plan, prioritize biotechnology advancements, accelerating local antibody production. However, the market remains price-sensitive, with a preference for cost-effective polyclonal antibodies in research applications. Japan and South Korea contribute significantly due to their strong academic-industry partnerships in immunotherapy. While intellectual property challenges persist, the growth of domestic players like Wuhan Fine Biotech signals increasing regional self-sufficiency in antibody production.

South America
South America’s CD137 antibody market is emerging, with Brazil leading due to its expanding biotech sector and clinical trial activities. Public healthcare investments and partnerships with global pharmaceutical firms are gradually improving accessibility to advanced therapies. However, economic instability and inconsistent regulatory harmonization hinder market expansion. Argentina shows promise in research applications but faces funding constraints. While the region remains a minor player in global production, increasing awareness of immunotherapy presents long-term growth opportunities for suppliers targeting academic and research institutions.

Middle East & Africa
The Middle East & Africa exhibit nascent but growing demand for CD137 antibodies, driven by rising healthcare investments in the GCC countries and increasing cancer research initiatives. Countries like Israel and Saudi Arabia are establishing biotechnology hubs with collaborations from international firms. However, limited local manufacturing capabilities and reliance on imports constrain market growth. Africa faces broader challenges, including underfunded research infrastructure and low adoption rates of advanced therapies, though partnerships with global health organizations could unlock future potential in key urban centers.

Report Scope

This market research report offers a holistic overview of global and regional markets for the forecast period 2025–2032. It presents accurate and actionable insights based on a blend of primary and secondary research.

Key Coverage Areas:

• ✅ Market Overview

  • Global and regional market size (historical & forecast)

  • Growth trends and value/volume projections

• ✅ Segmentation Analysis

  • By product type or category

  • By application or usage area

  • By end-user industry

  • By distribution channel (if applicable)

• ✅ Regional Insights

  • North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa

  • Country-level data for key markets

• ✅ Competitive Landscape

  • Company profiles and market share analysis

  • Key strategies: M&A, partnerships, expansions

  • Product portfolio and pricing strategies

• ✅ Technology & Innovation

  • Emerging technologies and R&D trends

  • Automation, digitalization, sustainability initiatives

  • Impact of AI, IoT, or other disruptors (where applicable)

• ✅ Market Dynamics

  • Key drivers supporting market growth

  • Restraints and potential risk factors

  • Supply chain trends and challenges

• ✅ Opportunities & Recommendations

  • High-growth segments

  • Investment hotspots

  • Strategic suggestions for stakeholders

• ✅ Stakeholder Insights

  • Target audience includes manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, investors, regulators, and policymakers

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is the current market size of Global CD137 Antibody Market?

-> Global CD137 Antibody market was valued at USD 450 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1066 million by 2032.

Which key companies operate in Global CD137 Antibody Market?

-> Key players include Sino Biological, Inc., Thermo Fisher, BioLegend, Abcam, Bio-Techne, Merck, and Cell Signaling Technology, Inc., among others.

What are the key growth drivers?

-> Key growth drivers include rising demand for immunotherapy, increasing cancer research activities, and advancements in antibody-based therapeutics.

Which region dominates the market?

-> North America holds the largest market share, while Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the highest growth rate.

What are the emerging trends?

-> Emerging trends include combination therapies, personalized medicine approaches, and increasing R&D investments in immuno-oncology.