A molecular perspective for the development of antibodies against the human respiratory syncytial virus

Antiviral Res. 2024 Feb:222:105783. doi: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2023.105783. Epub 2023 Dec 24.

Abstract

The human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) is the leading etiologic agent causing respiratory infections in infants, children, older adults, and patients with comorbidities. Sixty-seven years have passed since the discovery of hRSV, and only a few successful mitigation or treatment tools have been developed against this virus. One of these is immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies against structural proteins of the virus, such as Palivizumab, the first prophylactic approach approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the USA. In this article, we discuss different strategies for the prevention and treatment of hRSV infection, focusing on the molecular mechanisms against each target that underly the rational design of antibodies against hRSV. At the same time, we describe the latest results regarding currently approved therapies against hRSV and the challenges associated with developing new candidates.

Keywords: Human respiratory syncytial virus; Immunotherapy; Monoclonal antibodies; Treatment.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Palivizumab / therapeutic use
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections* / drug therapy
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections* / prevention & control
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human*

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Palivizumab
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal