An unexpected mode of action for an antibody

Studies of human monoclonal antibodies isolated from survivors of the coronavirus-induced severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) or Middle-East respiratory syndrome (MERS) are unveiling surprising immune defense tactics against fatal viruses. Atomic and molecular information about the workings of the highly potent antibodies may provide insights to prevent these serious and sometimes deadly lung infections. Currently, no vaccines or specific treatments are available for any of the six coronaviruses that can infect humans. Some of these coronaviruses cause only common-cold-like symptoms, but others provoke lethal pneumonia. Past deadly outbreaks in several countries foreshadow the possibility of coronavirus-mediated pandemics. Additionally, genetic surveillance of coronaviruses in bats and the fact that the MERS coronavirus naturally circulates in dromedary camels suggest that previous outbreaks may not be unusual incidences. The animal/human species barrier is likely to be crossed again and lead to new emerging coronaviruses in the future. As part of anticipation and preparation initiatives, infectious disease research groups are trying to develop an anti-coronavirus arsenal. An international team headed by UW Medicine scientists is among those attempting to understand how SARS and MERS coronaviruses infect humans, and how their presence elicits a response from the immune system. The research group is particularly interested in how neutralizing antibodies target the coronavirus' cell-invasion machinery.