Broad and potent neutralization of HIV-1 by human-llama fusion antibodies derived from immunized llamas

Le Mccoy,Nm Strokappe,G Dekkers,H De Haard,C Blanchetot,T Verrips,L Rutten,Ra Weiss,A Forsman-Quigley,Ms Seaman

doi:10.1186/1742-4690-9-s2-p94

Abstract

Results Newly isolated VHH from multiple immunized llamas also have broad and potent HIV-1 neutralization activity. J3 targets HIV-1 via the CD4-binding site and neutralization is seen when J3 is used in combination with VHH targeting other Env epitopes. VHH-human FC fusion heavychain only antibodies (VHH-FC) have been constructed and J3 activity is not only preserved in this context but enhanced.

Highlights

Broad and potent neutralization of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 by human-llama fusion antibodies derived from immunized llamas
Llamas naturally produce heavy chain only antibodies in addition to conventional antibodies
A variable regions of the heavy chain (VHH) (J3) isolated from a llama multiply-immunized with recombinant trimeric HIV-1 envelope proteins (Env) was found to neutralize 96 of 100 HIV-1 strains, encompassing subtypes A, B, C, D, BC, AE, AG, AC, ACD, CD and G

Summary

Background

Llamas naturally produce heavy chain only antibodies in addition to conventional antibodies. Immunizations in human and animal models have yielded only antibodies with limited ability to neutralize human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1

Methods

Results

Conclusion