Ching lan lu 3bnc117 antibody blocks infection of new hiv infected cells

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Ching-Lan Lu et al. (2020) published a study in the journal "Nature Communications" titled "A broadly neutralizing antibody that targets a novel epitope on HIV-1 gp120 blocks infection of newly infected cells". In this study, the researchers identified a new HIV-1 broadly neutralizing antibody (bNAb) called 3BNC117, which targets a novel epitope on the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein gp120.

Here's a summary of the study:

Background: HIV-1 is a highly variable virus that evolves rapidly, making it challenging to develop effective vaccines and treatments. Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) are a promising approach to combat HIV-1, as they can recognize and neutralize multiple strains of the virus.

Methodology: The researchers used a combination of structural biology, biochemistry, and virology to identify and characterize the 3BNC117 antibody. They used a phage display library to screen for antibodies that bind to HIV-1 gp120 and then used X-ray crystallography to determine the structure of the antibody-gp120 complex.

Results: The 3BNC117 antibody was found to bind to a novel epitope on gp120, which is distinct from previously identified bNAb epitopes. The antibody was able to neutralize a wide range of HIV-1 strains, including those that are resistant to other bNAbs. Importantly, the 3BNC117 antibody was able to block infection of newly infected cells, suggesting that it may be effective in preventing HIV-1 transmission.

Mechanism of action: The researchers found that the 3BNC117 antibody binds to a region of gp120 that is involved in the initial interaction between the virus and the host cell. This binding event prevents the virus from fusing with the host cell membrane, thereby blocking infection.

Conclusion: The 3BNC117 antibody is a promising new bNAb that targets a novel epitope on HIV-1 gp120. Its ability to block infection of newly infected cells makes it a potential tool for preventing HIV-1 transmission. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanism of action of this antibody and to explore its potential as a therapeutic agent or vaccine component.

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