Monoclonal Antibody Combo Promising Against Rabies - Monoclonal Antibodies

Monoclonal Antibody Combo Promising Against Rabies
2006
J Infect Dis
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) Apr 06 - Studies in hamsters show that a combination of two human monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) may offer a safe and effective alternative to treatment with anti-rabies immunoglobulin (RIC) for postexposure prophylaxis, according to Dutch and US researchers.
Dr. Jaap Goudsmit of Crucell Holland BV, Leiden and colleagues estimate that the annual death rate from endemic canine rabies is about 55,000. There is a limited supply RIG, which in combination with rabies vaccine, is effective as postexposure prophylaxis.
Currently, human or equine RIGs are used for this purpose. However, the researchers have identified a combination of two human Mabs, CR57 and CR4098 show promise.
To investigate, the team compared the MAb combination with human RIG. The MAb treatment neutralized a panel of 26 rabies viral isolates that are common sources of infection.
When administered with the rabies vaccine 24 hours after exposure to lethal rabies, the hamsters were protected. The results were comparable to those with human RIG, Dr. Goudsmit's group reports in the March 15th issue of The Journal of Infectious Diseases.
The researchers also note that unlike human RIG, production of these MAbs would be consistent from batch to batch and would obviate the risks associated with blood-derived products.
Thus, the investigators conclude, the MAb cocktail "is a safe and efficacious alternative to RIG in rabies postexposure prophylaxis."