A novel anti-HIV-1 bispecific bNAb-lectin fusion protein engineered in a plant-based transient expression system.

ABSTRACT: The discovery of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) has been a major step towards better prophylactic and therapeutic agents against human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). However, effective therapy will likely require a combination of anti-HIV agents to avoid viral evasion. One possible solution to this problem is the creation of bispecific molecules that can concurrently target two vulnerable sites providing synergistic inhibitory effects. Here, we describe the production in plants and anti-HIV activity of a novel bispecific fusion protein consisting of the antigen-binding fragment (Fab) of the CD4 binding site-specific bNAb VRC01 and the antiviral lectin Avaren, which targets the glycan shield of the HIV-1 envelope (VRC01_Fab -Avaren). This combination was justified

SUBMITTER: Seber Kasinger LE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6662308 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature