They are developing molecules that fight various H1N1 flu viruses.

Influenza viruses They pose a threat to global health and are an ongoing problem due to their high zoonotic potential.. The H1N1 flu virus caused a pandemic in 2009 and continues to this day with seasonal outbreaks, highlighting need for additional tools for vaccination.

As a result of interdisciplinary work, the viral biotechnology group of the Institute of Biochemical Research of Bahia Blanca (Inibibb, Conicet-UNS), led by Conicet researcher Mariana Puntelmanaged to develop and characterize a series of ten molecules from llamas vaccinated against influenza.. The authors suggest that isolated genes can be vaccinated against various viruses in humans influenza subtype H1N1.

“This study offers a number of promising therapeutic candidates to combat H1N1 influenza virus infections and to develop innovative technologies for the prevention and treatment of viral diseases,” Puntel emphasizes. The work was developed in close collaboration with the Incuinta group, affiliated with the Institute of Virology and Technological Innovation (IVIT, Conicet-INTA), led by a Conicet researcher. Viviana Parreno.

RESULTS AND POSSIBLE APPLICATIONS

In their work, the scientists managed to characterize monoclonal nanoantibodies that are effective in preventing infection with H1N1 influenza viruses. In particular, they identified four therapeutic nanoantibodies. Genetically engineered from heavy chain immunoglobulins present in llamas and other camelids, each of which has different abilities to bind and neutralize different regions of influenza viruses, allowing them to provide broad protection against this pathogen.

Notably, the llama-derived nanoantibodies are ten times smaller than the most widely known antibodies. They are monoclonal and highly stable and soluble, making them an attractive tool for developing immune-boosting compounds as a complement to vaccination or as diagnostics.

“The nanoantibodies we have developed are candidates for use as active substances in drugs for preventive and therapeutic use. In particular, We are working on intranasal administration of drops and are studying its implementation in nebulizer forms.– explains Puntel.

The study results represent a step forward in the development of new technologies capable of inhibiting viral replication across a broad range of influenza A virus strains. For the first time, a nanoantibody has been described that provides sterilizing immunity against this virus. already a very low dose. One of the identified nanoantibodies was shown to provide protection in vivo at doses ten times lower than those previously described for this type of experimental treatment. This level of protection resulted in an undetectable viral load in the lungs of treated mice by day four after exposure to the virus.

“After the tests, no traces of the virus were detected in mice that were given intranasally and then infected. That is why we say that we have identified an ideal candidate for prevention, and we are pleased that these results will be reproduced in future trials,” concludes Puntel.