Monoclonal Antibodies

LJI scientists take crucial step in developing world's first measles treatment

Anti-amyloid Alzheimer’s drugs show no clinically meaningful effect

A new Cochrane review of 17 clinical trials found that anti-amyloid Alzheimer's drugs have no significant impact on cognitive decline or dementia severity, but may increase the risk of brain swelling and bleeding. The evidence suggests that these drugs are unlikely to provide clear benefit to patients.

Antibody drugs with strong immune cell binding linked to allergic reactions

Researchers from Chiba University found that antibody therapeutics with stronger Fcγ receptor binding are more likely to be recognized as foreign and associated with higher anaphylaxis risk. High affinities for Fcγ receptors critical determinants of anaphylaxis, study suggests.

Phase I study for human monoclonal antibody for Lyme disease demonstrates safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics

A Phase I clinical trial of a human monoclonal antibody for Lyme disease demonstrates its safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics. The treatment, TNX-4800, provides lasting serum concentrations and has the potential to offer passive immunity against the disease.

Rice bioengineer awarded $2.2 million for project to develop long-acting cell factory implants for HIV, malaria treatment and prevention

Rice bioengineer Omid Veiseh has been awarded a $2.2 million grant to develop implantable cell factory platforms that can deliver therapeutic antibodies over extended periods. The platform aims to reduce dosing frequency and improve access to biologic therapies in low- and middle-income countries.

Improving treatment for an autoimmune bleeding condition

A Phase III clinical trial found that over half of patients who received ianalumab for primary ITP maintained safe platelet counts without serious bleeding episodes for at least one year. The study suggests a new treatment option with the potential to improve long-term quality of life for patients.

Protecting infants against respiratory syncytial virus this winter — ECDC issues advice

In response to rising RSV cases, ECDC advises policymakers and public health authorities on effective ways to mitigate the impact of RSV disease in infants. Immunisation interventions, including long-acting monoclonal antibodies and maternal vaccines, can prevent severe illness and hospitalization.

Study in Europe: monoclonal antibodies effectively prevent respiratory syncytial virus in infants

A European study found that long-acting monoclonal antibody immunisation effectively prevented hospitalisation due to RSV infection among children under two years old. The overall immunisation effectiveness was 79%, with a decline in protection over time, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring.

New antibody therapy reawakens immune system to fight pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered how pancreatic tumors evade the immune system and created an antibody therapy that blocks this mechanism, reawakening immune cells to attack cancer cells. The study shows promise for treating pancreatic cancer and may have broader implications for other hard-to-treat cancers.

New monoclonal antibody shows promise for preventing malaria infections

A new monoclonal antibody has shown dose-dependent full protection against the malaria parasite with minimal side effects. Researchers found that a single injection of the antibody could provide months-long protection, offering a fundamentally different way to prevent infection before it starts.

Conversion of IgG antibodies to IgM broadens antibacterial activity

Researchers at UMC Utrecht discovered that converting monoclonal antibodies from IgG to IgM isotype can significantly broaden their ability to recognize and bind multiple human-relevant bacterial pathogens. This finding could guide the future design of antibody therapies against bacterial infections.

Group creates tool to predict whether multiple sclerosis medication will be effective for patients

Researchers have developed a tool that can predict how patients with multiple sclerosis will respond to natalizumab treatment, allowing for targeted treatments with fewer side effects. The tool uses high-content imaging and machine learning to analyze cell morphology and identify individuals who are unlikely to respond to the medication.

Advancing monoclonal antibody biomanufacturing: using a novel label-free biosensing platform

Researchers developed a novel label-free biosensing platform to monitor cellular secretion of monoclonal antibodies in real-time. This approach enables rapid clone selection and cost-effective manufacturing of life-saving immunotherapies.

High-volume antibody testing platform could accelerate disease research and treatment development

Researchers developed a high-volume method to rapidly build and test large numbers of antibodies at once, accelerating antibody research and treatment development. The oPool+ display platform has potential applications in influenza vaccination research, infectious disease treatment, and cancer research.

A stunning first look at the viruses inside us

Researchers mapped the surface envelope glycoprotein of human endogenous retroviruses, opening doors to new diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities. The study revealed specific antibodies that target the viral proteins, potentially leading to new cancer immunotherapies and treatments for autoimmune diseases.

‘Molecular shield’ placed in the nose may soon treat common hay fever trigger

Researchers have engineered a monoclonal antibody that blocks allergic reactions against common pollen when applied inside the nose of mice, providing new hope for hay fever sufferers. The treatment, known as a 'molecular shield,' acts immediately and locally at the lining of the nose to prevent IgE antibodies from being activated.

Insights from immunotherapy trial inform new approaches to treating advanced skin cancer

A phase 2 trial found that combining avelumab and cetuximab significantly extended median progression-free survival in patients with advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. The combination showed synergistic effects, suggesting a potential new standard of care for this patient population.

Ragon Institute study uncovers how certain antibodies help fight tuberculosis

Researchers identified specific antibody features that limit Mtb growth, revealing critical insights into antibody-immune cell interactions. The study lays groundwork for potential antibody-based therapies or vaccines against tuberculosis, an urgently needed treatment for the deadly infectious disease.

Do bevacizumab’s ovarian cancer clinical trial results hold up in the real world?

A real-world study of 1,752 patients with stage III or IV ovarian cancer found that adding bevacizumab to chemotherapy improved overall survival for those with advanced disease and residual cancer. Benefits were mostly seen in high-risk patients, not the general population.

Engineering an antibody against flu with sticky staying power

Scientists have engineered a monoclonal antibody that protects mice from a lethal dose of influenza A with sticky staying power. The new molecule combines specificity and broad binding capacity, adhering to the lung lining and blocking infection in mice.

Clinical trial underway for potential Long COVID treatment

A clinical trial is underway to assess the effectiveness of sipavibart, a long-acting monoclonal antibody, in treating Long COVID symptoms. The study aims to improve patients' health and restore them to full health.

Headway in Alzheimer’s disease care: new guidance provides recommendations for use of anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies

The Swiss Memory Clinics network has released new national guidelines on the use of anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies, such as Lecanemab and Donanemab, for treating Alzheimer's disease. The guidelines outline criteria for patient selection, biomarker confirmation, and infrastructure requirements to support safe treatment delivery.

A new druggable cancer target: RNA-binding proteins on the cell surface

Researchers have discovered a new druggable cancer target, NPM1, which is expressed on the surface of malignant AML cells. Monoclonal antibodies targeting NPM1 showed robust anti-tumor activity in multiple in vivo models of AML, with no apparent toxicity to non-cancerous blood cells and stem cells.

Transatlantic collaboration to develop therapeutic for Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever

A new collaboration aims to develop an affordable and accessible monoclonal antibody therapeutic for CCHFV, treating thousands globally. USAMRIID discovered the antibody in mice, and LifeArc is supporting development of a fully humanized antibody.

Most COVID-19 treatments found to be free of serious side effects in analysis of U.S. studies

The study analyzed 54 U.S. studies and found no significant association with serious adverse events for oral antivirals like Paxlovid or monoclonal antibodies. Actemra was associated with infection and low white blood cell counts, while transfusions of convalescent plasma were linked to internal bleeding and blood clots.

Researchers’ study show advancements in GP38 contributions to CCHFV and monoclonal antibody therapies

Researchers have made significant discoveries about the role of GP38 in viral infections and pathogenesis, highlighting its potential as a target for vaccines and medical countermeasures. Non-neutralizing GP38-specific antibodies have shown protective efficacy against lethal challenge, reducing circulating GP38 and vascular leak.

Driving the CAR to fight acute myeloid leukemia

Researchers at Osaka University identify a specific molecule, HLA-DRB1, that can be targeted by CAR-based therapy for AML. Engineered CAR T cells showed strong and specific anti-AML effects in vitro and in vivo with mice, without overt toxicity.

Engineering antibodies with a novel fusion protein

Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys developed a new method of generating antibodies by fusing two immune system proteins, enabling the creation of stable monoclonal antibodies. This breakthrough has potential applications in diagnosing and monitoring diseases such as lupus and cancers.

Antibody-based therapy is several steps closer to treat lethal mucormycosis

Researchers at The Lundquist Institute have developed an antibody called VX-01 that targets the fungus Mucorales and prevents it from damaging human cells and blood vessels. Early tests show that VX-01 is safe and effective in fighting mucormycosis, a disease with high mortality rates among those with weakened immune systems.

Efficient development of drugs with fewer mice

Researchers at the University of Zurich have developed a technology to test 25 antibodies simultaneously in a single mouse, greatly reducing the number of laboratory animals required. The method uses protein fragments as barcodes for analysis, allowing for high-quality preclinical data on multiple antibody candidates.

New Ebola virus research boosts pandemic preparedness

Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered a human antibody called mAb 3A6 that may prove useful against deadly outbreaks. The antibody was isolated from an Ebola survivor and found to block infection by binding to the viral stalk, offering protection at a very low dose.

NIH-funded clinical trial will evaluate new dengue therapeutic

The NIH-funded clinical trial aims to evaluate the safety and ability of AV-1 to lessen symptoms in people suffering from dengue. The study will expose adult volunteers to a weakened strain of dengue virus and administer AV-1 at various doses.

Development and validation of a tool to predict onset of mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer dementia

Researchers developed a predictive tool using the Florey Dementia Index to forecast onset ages of mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's. The validated tool may help prioritize patients for disease-modifying treatments.

Gene therapy to treat chronic hypereosinophilia

Researchers developed a gene therapy approach to treat chronic hypereosinophilia by delivering an anti-human eosinophil antibody via AAV-based gene therapy. The therapy successfully suppressed blood eosinophil levels in mice, showing promise as a potential treatment for the condition.

NIH researchers discover novel class of anti-malaria antibodies

Researchers at NIH have identified a novel class of anti-malaria antibodies that target previously untargeted regions of the parasite. These antibodies have shown promise in providing protection against malaria parasites in animal models and could lead to new prevention methods.

Global research led by UT Health San Antonio uncovers critical weakness in malaria parasite

Researchers found that antibodies targeting a specific site on the malaria parasite's virulence protein bind to the human host's endothelial protein C receptor, neutralizing the parasite. The discovery provides new insights into prevention and treatment of severe malaria.

Breakthroughs in cell-penetrating monoclonal antibody therapies

Researchers have developed a new generation of cell-penetrating antibodies that can target cancer cells and deliver therapeutic molecules directly into tumor cells. The 3E10 antibody shows great promise for treating cancers with defective DNA repair pathways.

MD Anderson and AmMax Bio announce agreements to advance development of AMB-066 in colorectal cancer patients with minimal residual disease

The collaboration aims to evaluate the potential of AMB-066 as a first-in-class treatment option for patients with colorectal cancer and minimal residual disease. MD Anderson researchers have identified a potential opportunity for AMB-066 to effectively treat MRD-positive CRC, based on robust preclinical data.

ASH: Monoclonal antibody therapy improves survival in cancer-associated hyper-inflammatory disorder

Researchers observed a 100% response rate on Phase Ib trial for patients with newly diagnosed malignancy-associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Early intervention with ELA026 may provide meaningful clinical benefits for patients with few options.

Genetic code deploys cancer mafia, new targeted drug gives them an offer they can’t refuse

Scientists at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center have discovered a new genetic code that recruits and deploys tumor cells to invade healthy organs. This breakthrough could offer groundbreaking insight into new treatment strategies targeting tumor growth in its earliest stages.

New antibody breakthrough offers hope against evolving SARS-CoV-2 variants

Researchers have discovered a monoclonal antibody capable of targeting multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants, including recent Omicron strains. K4-66's exceptional ability to adapt to the virus's frequent mutations makes it a promising candidate for vaccine and therapy development.

Cetuximab outperforms durvalumab in treatment of head and neck cancers

A clinical trial found that cetuximab was more effective than durvalumab in treating advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head or neck, with a higher probability of being alive and free of disease at two years. Cetuximab's efficacy was similar whether or not the cancer was associated with HPV.

Developing an antibody to combat age-related muscle atrophy

Researchers from Kyushu University have developed an antibody that targets and prevents the dysfunction of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), a critical protein for skeletal muscle development, regeneration, and repair. The new antibody, 1H42F4N, blocked nitration of HGF and did not disrupt its activity.

New findings on animal viruses with potential to infect humans

Researchers identified a protein in mammals that welcomes arteriviruses into host cells to start an infection. The team also found that an existing monoclonal antibody protects cells from viral infection, providing potential therapeutic strategy.

Immunotherapy blocks scarring, improves heart function in mice with heart failure

A new study suggests that immunotherapy may be an effective treatment strategy for heart failure by blocking scar tissue formation and improving heart function. Researchers identified a type of fibroblast cell responsible for scar tissue and used a monoclonal antibody to reduce its formation, showing promising results in mouse models.

Monoclonal antibodies: From magic bullet to precision weapon

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are developed using hybridoma technology, offering a drastic reduction in adverse reactions and interactions. Their cost has decreased with biosimilar antibodies, making them more accessible for treating various diseases.

Researchers identify antibodies against Klebsiella pneumoniae

A team of researchers at UMC Utrecht has identified 29 novel antibodies against the bacterium Klebsiella pneumoniae, an important cause of drug-resistant infections. The antibodies were found to interact with antigens on the bacterial surface and some act synergistically to neutralize the pathogen.

Campylobacter jejuni-specific antibody gives hope to vaccine development

Researchers have developed an antibody that can identify Campylobacter jejuni and inhibit its growth, reducing pathogenicity. The antibody targets a multiprotein complex essential for the bacteria's energy production, making it a potential target for therapy and vaccination.

Monoclonal antibodies offer hope for tackling antimicrobial resistance

A new monoclonal antibody drug has been developed to prevent infection with A. baumannii, a common cause of hospital-acquired infections. The treatment was shown to be effective in reducing bacterial load in mice, and could potentially become a powerful new weapon against antimicrobial resistance.

WashU Medicine leads two major pandemic preparedness research projects

Scientists at WashU Medicine are developing strategies and tools to produce vaccines and antibody-based therapies for viruses from five understudied families. The effort aims to rapidly respond to potential future pandemics, with funding totaling $90M over three years.

NIH awards establish pandemic preparedness research network

The NIH has established a pandemic preparedness research network, ReVAMPP, to focus on high-priority pathogens with the potential to cause deadly diseases. The network will study viruses from families that have caused human disease for millennia and aim to develop safe and effective medical countermeasures.

Machine learning could help reduce hospitalizations by nearly 30% during a pandemic, study finds

A new study published in JAMA Health Forum found that machine learning can be more effective than traditional methods for distributing scarce treatments to patients most vulnerable during a public health crisis. The model reduces expected hospitalizations by about 27 percent compared to actual and observed care.

Boosting brain protein levels may slow decline from Alzheimer’s

A study published in the journal Brain shows that increases in protein levels with new Alzheimer's drugs can explain the slowing of cognitive impairment at least as well as the reduction in amyloid plaques. The researchers found that higher levels of a critical brain protein correlate equally well with cognitive benefits.

One antibody to neutralize them all?

Researchers developed a monoclonal antibody called SC27 that targets multiple parts of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, including conserved sections. The antibody shows promise against various COVID-19 variants and related coronaviruses, potentially benefiting immunocompromised patients

Birmingham host to investigational treatment trial which could improve outcomes of pregnancies affected by severe haemolytic disease

A clinical study in Birmingham has found that nipocalimab can improve the survival rate of unborn babies with rare fetal anaemia. The majority of pregnant patients who received nipocalimab gave birth at or after 32 weeks without needing an intrauterine transfusion, resulting in a perinatal survival rate of 92%.

Investigating the effect of alemtuzumab in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in patients with inborn errors of immunity

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Immunology found alemtuzumab to be safe and effective in treating Asian patients with inborn errors of immunity after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. The drug was shown to improve overall survival rates, with 94.7% of patients surviving post-transplantation.

Monoclonal antibodies from space: Improved crystallization under microgravity during manufacturing in orbit

Crystallized monoclonal antibodies demonstrate improved viscosity levels, stability, and shelf-life under microgravity conditions. This process streamlines manufacturing and improves scalability for subcutaneous administration, offering greater patient convenience and compliance.

HER2-low and HER2-zero in breast cancer between prognosis, prediction and entity

Researchers discuss HER2 in breast cancer, highlighting the prognostic and predictive factors. They found an independent positive prognostic effect of HER2-low compared to HER2-zero in early breast cancer, challenging the long-held view that HER2-negative tumors do not benefit from trastuzumab-based therapy.

NIH-sponsored trial of enterovirus D68 therapeutic begins

A Phase 1 clinical trial is underway to evaluate the safety and efficacy of an investigational monoclonal antibody targeting enterovirus D68 (EV-D68), a virus associated with severe respiratory and neurological diseases. The trial will assess the antibody's potency, duration of action, and optimal dose in healthy volunteers.

A promising weapon against measles

Researchers have discovered how a neutralizing antibody blocks measles virus infection by arresting the fusion process. The study's findings may also be relevant to other viruses with pandemic potential, such as Nipah and parainfluenza viruses.