Monoclonal Antibodies Against Zika Show Promise in Monkey Study | NIH: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Monoclonal Antibodies Against Zika Show Promise in Monkey Study | NIH: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Thursday, Oct. 5, 2017

Monoclonal antibodies against Zika virus show promise in monkey study

Using blood samples from an individual previously infected with Zika virus, NIAID-funded scientists have developed an antibody-based Zika virus therapeutic that protected monkeys from infection. Because monoclonal antibodies are generally safe, they believe this antibody cocktail might be appropriate for uninfected pregnant women; because the antibodies will likely cross the placenta, the researchers hope that administration during pregnancy may protect both the pregnant woman and the fetus from Zika virus. The investigators are hoping to test this concept by pursuing studies in people.

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