Neutralizing Monoclonal Antibodies against the Gn and the Gc of the Andes Virus Glycoprotein Spike Complex Protect from Virus Challenge in a Preclinical Hamster Model.

Author: AmanatFatima, DuehrJames, DurbinAlan, FeldmannHeinz, HawmanDavid W, KrammerFlorian, McMahonMeagan, NoackDanny, TanGene S, UhlSkyler, WilliamsonBrandi

Overview

Hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS) is a severe and potentially fatal disease. There is currently no treatment or vaccine available. This study generated 19 monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) against the glycoprotein complex of Andes virus (ANDV), the causative agent of the Epuyén outbreak in Argentina. Twelve MAbs showed potent neutralization activity, and four of these MAbs provided 100% protection against lethality in a hamster model of ANDV infection. These data suggest the potential to develop neutralizing antibodies as therapeutics against hantaviral disease.

Paper Details　

Original Abstract of the Article :

Hantaviruses are the etiological agent of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS). The latter is associated with case fatality rates ranging from 30% to 50%. HCPS cases are rare, with approximately 300 recorded annually in the Americas. Recently, a...See full text at original site

Dr.Camel's Paper Summary Blog

Neutralizing Antibodies: A Potential Weapon Against Hantaviruses

Hantaviruses, lurking like unseen predators in the vast desert of human health, can cause life-threatening diseases, including hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS). These viruses are a significant threat to public health, particularly in the Americas, where HCPS outbreaks have occurred, leaving many feeling lost and vulnerable.

This study, a beacon of hope in the fight against these deadly viruses, explores the development of neutralizing antibodies against Andes virus (ANDV), the culprit behind the Epuyén outbreak in Argentina. The researchers, like skilled archers aiming for a target, generated 19 distinct monoclonal antibodies against the ANDV glycoprotein complex.

They found that these antibodies effectively neutralized the virus in laboratory tests and protected hamsters from lethal infection. This research offers a promising lead in the development of therapeutics against hantaviral disease, a long-awaited oasis in the desert of unmet medical needs.

New Hope for Hantavirus Treatment

This study's findings are incredibly encouraging. The development of neutralizing antibodies against ANDV could lead to the first effective treatments for hantaviral disease. This breakthrough holds the potential to significantly reduce the mortality rate associated with these infections.

Dr. Camel's Conclusion

Hantaviruses are formidable foes, but this study shows that we can fight back. The discovery of neutralizing antibodies offers a ray of hope in the battle against these deadly viruses, paving the way for future therapies and potentially saving lives.