Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center develops antibodies against Epstein-Barr virus
Updated
Updated · ScienceAlert · May 2
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center develops antibodies against Epstein-Barr virus
8 articles · Updated · ScienceAlert · May 2
With University of Washington researchers, the US team created 10 antibodies targeting gp350 and gp42, and one protected mice with human-like immune systems from EBV infection.
The antibodies aim to block EBV from entering B cells and may also help prevent later reactivation, a key challenge because the virus can bind to nearly all B cells.
Researchers said the approach could help transplant patients at risk of EBV-driven disorders, including PTLD, but human safety testing and clinical trials are still needed.
Could these new antibodies finally pave the way for an effective EBV vaccine, and what hurdles remain before human trials begin?
If EBV is linked to both cancer and multiple sclerosis, how might these antibodies transform prevention strategies for such a broad range of diseases?
Novel Dual-Target Human Antibodies Block EBV Entry, Paving the Way to Prevent Post-Transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder
Overview
In October 2023, Fred Hutch researchers developed the first fully human monoclonal antibodies that block Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection by targeting two key viral proteins, gp350 and gp42. The anti-gp42 antibody completely prevented EBV infection in humanized mouse models, while the anti-gp350 antibody provided partial protection. EBV infects over 90% of adults worldwide and causes serious diseases, especially in immunocompromised transplant patients who face high risks of fatal post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD). With no approved preventive therapies available, these antibodies offer a promising new approach. Current efforts focus on advancing them into clinical trials to protect vulnerable patients and reduce EBV-related complications.