Passive antibody therapy in emerging infectious diseases

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Virology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2 and its variants, has persisted for over three years.
• Antibody therapies, including convalescent plasma, hyperimmunoglobulin, and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), have been instrumental in managing COVID-19.
• These passive immunotherapies demonstrated significant clinical benefits in early treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the development, mechanisms of action, and clinical outcomes of antibody therapies for COVID-19.
• To assess the challenges, safety profiles, and efficacy of these treatments against severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 variants of concern (VOCs).
• To evaluate the future prospects of antibody therapy in combating emerging infectious disease outbreaks.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of studies on COVID-19 antibody therapies.
• Analysis of clinical trial data and real-world evidence for convalescent plasma, hyperimmunoglobulin, and mAbs.
• Evaluation of the immunological mechanisms underlying antibody-mediated protection.

Main Results:

• Antibody therapies have shown positive outcomes in treating COVID-19, particularly in the early stages.
• Monoclonal antibodies have evolved to target specific viral proteins, with varying efficacy against different VOCs.
• Safety profiles are generally acceptable, though specific adverse events have been reported.

Conclusions:

• Antibody therapies remain a critical component of COVID-19 management, with ongoing research into broader applications.
• Understanding antibody responses is key to developing effective treatments against current and future viral threats.
• Further research is needed to optimize antibody therapy strategies for emerging variants and novel pathogens.