A virus with a 90 percent fatality rate might sound like something out of a disaster movie, but the Nipah virus is a very real, and growing, threat. Researchers are now celebrating a major breakthrough in fighting this deadly pathogen, with a new monoclonal antibody showing 100% protection in preclinical trials.
A Potential Lifesaver: New Antibody Shows Promise Against Nipah Virus
A novel antibody,1F5 (MBP1F5),developed at the Uniformed Services University,has demonstrated complete protection against both Nipah and Hendra viruses in preclinical studies,offering a beacon of hope in the fight against these devastating diseases.
- The Nipah virus, spread by fruit bats, causes severe respiratory and neurological illness with a fatality rate up to 90%.
- The 1F5 monoclonal antibody (mAb) has shown 100% effectiveness in protecting against Nipah and Hendra viruses in preclinical trials.
- Phase I clinical trials are planned in the U.S., with additional trials slated for India and Bangladesh, where outbreaks are frequent.
- the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) has committed $43 million to support further growth and testing of the antibody.
What makes Nipah virus so dangerous? This virus, along with its close relative hendra virus, is naturally carried by Pteropid fruit bats, commonly known as flying foxes. Transmission to humans typically occurs through contaminated raw date palm sap or direct contact with infected animals. Worryingly, the virus can also spread from person to person, leading to outbreaks characterized by acute respiratory distress syndrome and encephalitis-inflammation of the brain. Currently,there are no licensed vaccines or specific treatments available.
From Early Research to a Promising New Antibody
The story of this breakthrough stretches back 15 years, beginning with work led by Dr. Christopher Broder at the Uniformed Services University. Initial research identified mAb m102.4, which targets a key protein on the surface of the viruses. As 2010, this antibody has been used on an emergency basis to treat 18 patients worldwide at risk of Hendra or Nipah virus infection. Its success in Australia led to a 2
