In recent news, the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI), Serum Institute of India (SII), and Merck, a reputable science and technology-based company, have officially announced that they will work collectively to develop SARS-CoV-2 neutralising monoclonal antibodies. These antibodies (mAbs) are being created especially to tackle the ongoing global Covid-19 pandemic.
The IAVI is a renowned non-profit scientific research organisation committed to tackling urgent global health challenges. Its headquarters are situated in New York, USA. On the other hand, the SII holds the title of being the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer.
What Monoclonal Antibodies Are
Antibodies are naturally occurring proteins produced by the immune system that specifically target foreign objects referred to as antigens. These antibodies are designated as monoclonal Antibodies (mAbs) when they are developed from clones derived from a singular parent cell.
In essence, mAbs are man-made proteins engineered to mimic the functionality of human antibodies within the immune system. The development of mAbs requires the cloning of unique white blood cells. They have monovalent affinity, meaning they only bind to the same epitope, i.e., the part of an antigen that the antibody recognises.
Further, mAbs have a diverse array of applications. For instance, they can be utilised to carry drugs, toxins, or radioactive substances directly to affected cells. A significant use case for mAbs is they’re used in treating many diseases, including certain types of cancers.
The Role of Monoclonal Antibodies in Covid-19
Neutralising monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) designed specifically to fight against SARS-CoV-2 were co-invented by the IAVI and Scripps Research. These are extensively considered promising candidates for Covid-19 prevention and treatment strategies.
Preliminary results from preclinical research and initial clinical trials studying Covid-19 antibody treatment show encouraging signs of efficacy. mAbs also hold potential complementary roles to Covid-19 vaccines. They can be used both for treatment purposes and potentially for prevention, especially for individuals who may not benefit from vaccination due to age or pre-existing medical conditions.
Understanding the function of an Antibody
Also known as immunoglobulin, an antibody is a protective protein produced by the immune system in response to the presence of a foreign substance, referred to as an antigen. The body recognises a wide range of substances as antigens, including disease-causing organisms and toxic materials. Antibodies are responsible for recognizing and latching onto antigens to remove them from the body.
The Way Forward in the Fight against Covid-19
Considering expert speculation that Covid-19 may become an endemic disease and given the severity of symptoms in a significant number of affected individuals, effective therapies will be crucial for treating those who remain unvaccinated or whom vaccination does not protect.