M2 is known to be essential for the normal function of the influenza virus; in fact, one class of existing influenza drugs - adamantanes - are M2 inhibitors, and researchers have previously studied the therapeutic potential of antibodies specific for other regions of the M2 protein. Unfortunately, in most cases, M2 mutations have evolved that evade these therapeutic approaches. The fact that the M2 target discovered in this new research study comprises a region where very few changes have been observed means that antibodies that target it have the potential to be successful against multiple types of influenza A, and suggests that viral escape from such antibodies could be minimal.

Last year, Theraclone scientists identified two novel antibodies that potently neutralize a broad range of HIV-1 viruses, described in a paper published in the journal Science. "We have now found human antibodies that identify novel viral targets for two completely different viral pathogens for which development of effective therapeutic agents has proven to be challenging," noted Matthew Moyle, Theraclone's Chief Scientific Officer. "Unlike other antibody technologies, our approach enables rapid functional screening of human antibody repertoires which captures the work that the human immune system has already invested in pathogen defense." The company is currently pursuing the development of therapeutic antibodies against influenza as its lead program.

Papers published in the PNAS Early Edition are available online at: pnas/content/early/recent. Because PNAS publishes daily online, this article may appear later in the week.

This paper is dedicated to the memory of David J. Fanning.

SOURCE Theraclone Sciences