Scientists at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center have reached a milestone toward devising a treatment for the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a pathogen infecting nearly 95% of the global population. This virus is implicated in the onset of several oncological and neurodegenerative conditions. Their findings have been detailed in the journal Cell Reports Medicine (CRM).
The research team employed genetically engineered mice capable of producing human antibodies, enabling them to generate novel monoclonal antibodies. These new agents impede the virus’s ability to attach to immune cells and subsequently invade them. One particular antibody proved entirely effective in preventing infection in mice possessing a “humanized” immune system.
A primary obstacle in creating such therapies remains the identification of antibodies that will not trigger an adverse immune response against the therapeutic agent itself. Consequently, the group concentrated their efforts on two viral proteins: gp350 and gp42. The former facilitates the virus’s initial binding to the cell, while the latter is responsible for fusion and entry into the cell interior.
This focused approach led the scientists to discover two antibodies targeting gp350 and eight targeting gp42. Further scrutiny allowed them to pinpoint vulnerable sites on the virus, information that could be invaluable for vaccine development. In concluding experiments, the antibody against gp42 completely shut down the infection, whereas the gp350 antibody offered only partial protection.
This research holds particular relevance for individuals who have undergone organ or bone marrow transplantation. Due to the immunosuppressive drugs they receive, these patients face an elevated risk of viral reactivation, potentially leading to post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders—severe forms of lymphoma.
“Such complications frequently contribute to both morbidity and mortality following transplantation,” stated Rachel Bender Ignacio from the University of Washington. She added that halting viral replication could mitigate the risk of these outcomes and enhance overall treatment success.
The researchers anticipate that, in the future, these antibodies could be administered to patients via infusion, serving as a preventative measure against initial infection or reactivation, especially for populations deemed high-risk. The team is currently progressing to subsequent phases, focusing on safety assessment and preparation for clinical trials.
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