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Discovery and Structural Characterization of a Highly Protective Neutralizing Antibody Targeting the Mpox Virus A35R
Shimeng Bai1, Shuo Song1,2, Xin Wang1
1Biotherapy Clinical Research Center Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Immunity National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease Shenzhen Third People's Hospital The Second Affiliated Hospital Southern University of Science and Technology Shenzhen P. R. China.
Abstract:
The recent resurgence of the mpox virus (MPXV) has raised global health concerns due to its potential to cause severe illness in vulnerable populations. Targeting the extracellular enveloped virus (EEV) protein A35R is a promising strategy to restrict viral dissemination within the host. In this study, we combined mRNA-LNP immunization with the Beacon Optofluidic system to rapidly screen and isolate high-affinity monoclonal antibodies. One of these antibodies, 17H1, exhibited exceptional neutralization against authentic MPXV. Cryo-electron microscopy (Cryo-EM) analysis revealed that 17H1 binds to a specific epitope at the distal ends of the A35R dimer. The interaction is stabilized by a unique network of hydrogen bonds and salt bridges, particularly involving residue E120, distinguishing its binding mode from previously reported A35R antibodies. Furthermore, 17H1 exhibited complete protective efficacy against MPXV infection in vivo and significantly reduced pulmonary viral load and lung pathogenesis. These findings highlight 17H1 as a promising therapeutic candidate for novel mpox interventions.
Insights
A new antibody, 17H1, effectively neutralizes mpox virus (MPXV) by targeting the A35R protein. This antibody demonstrated complete protection in vivo, offering a promising therapeutic strategy for mpox infections.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Structural Biology
Background:
- The mpox virus (MPXV) resurgence poses a global health threat, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
- The extracellular enveloped virus (EEV) protein A35R is a key target for limiting MPXV spread.
- Developing effective interventions requires understanding virus-antibody interactions at a molecular level.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize high-affinity neutralizing monoclonal antibodies against MPXV.
- To elucidate the structural basis of antibody binding to the A35R protein.
- To evaluate the therapeutic potential of identified antibodies against MPXV infection.
Main Methods:
- mRNA-LNP immunization combined with Beacon Optofluidic system for rapid antibody screening.
- Cryo-electron microscopy (Cryo-EM) for detailed structural analysis of antibody-epitope interactions.
- In vivo efficacy studies in animal models to assess protective effects against MPXV.
Main Results:
- Isolation of a potent neutralizing antibody, 17H1, against authentic MPXV.
- Cryo-EM revealed 17H1 binds a unique epitope on the A35R dimer, stabilized by specific interactions.
- Antibody 17H1 demonstrated complete protection against MPXV in vivo, reducing viral load and lung pathology.
Conclusions:
- The monoclonal antibody 17H1 is a highly effective neutralizer of MPXV.
- The distinct binding mode of 17H1 to A35R offers a novel therapeutic avenue.
- 17H1 represents a promising candidate for developing new mpox treatments.
