Monoclonal antibodies in veterinary antiviral immunotherapy: technologies, applications and challenges

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are highly specific immunoglobulins that bind viral antigens with high affinity, making them valuable tools for diagnosis and targeted antiviral therapy in veterinary medicine. While mAbs are widely used in human healthcare, their application in veterinary medicine is limited. Only a few licensed products are available for animal health, and most candidates are in experimental or pre-clinical stages. This review provides a comprehensive overview of neutralizing mAbs targeting veterinary viral pathogens, including significant advances in production technologies and associated challenges. These innovations aim to reduce immunogenicity, improve efficacy, and expand the range of treatable diseases in companion animals, livestock, and wildlife. Despite these advances, high production costs, logistical constraints, and viral escape through mutation remain significant challenges to clinical implementation. If technological progress is integrated with strategies for overcoming these limitations, antiviral mAbs have the potential to become essential components of veterinary medicine. Their incorporation into a One Health framework could also enhance preparedness for emerging and zoonotic viral threats.