Open AccessA combination of two human monoclonal antibodies cures symptomatic rabies
Author(s) -
de Melo Guilherme Dias,
Sonthonnax Florian,
Lepousez Gabriel,
Jouvion Grégory,
Minola Andrea,
Zatta Fabrizia,
Larrous Florence,
Kergoat Lauriane,
Mazo Camille,
Moigneu Carine,
Aiello Roberta,
Salomoni Angela,
Brisebard Elise,
De Benedictis Paola,
Corti Davide,
Bourhy Hervé
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
embo molecular medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 4.923
H-Index - 107
eISSN - 1757-4684
pISSN - 1757-4676
DOI - 10.15252/emmm.202012628
Subject(s) - neuropathology , lyssavirus , medicine , library science , virology , rabies , rhabdoviridae , rabies virus , pathology , disease , computer science
Rabies is a neglected disease caused by a neurotropic Lyssavirus, transmitted to humans predominantly by the bite of infected dogs. Rabies is preventable with vaccines or proper post‐exposure prophylaxis ( PEP ), but it still causes about 60,000 deaths every year. No cure exists after the onset of clinical signs, and the case‐fatality rate approaches 100% even with advanced supportive care. Here, we report that a combination of two potent neutralizing human monoclonal antibodies directed against the viral envelope glycoprotein cures symptomatic rabid mice. Treatment efficacy requires the concomitant administration of antibodies in the periphery and in the central nervous system through intracerebroventricular infusion. After such treatment, recovered mice presented good clinical condition, viral loads were undetectable, and the brain inflammatory profile was almost normal. Our findings provide the unprecedented proof of concept of an antibody‐based therapeutic approach for symptomatic rabies.