Maternally transferred mAbs protect neonatal mice from HSV-induced mortality and morbidity

J Exp Med. 2022 Dec 5;219(12):e20220110. doi: 10.1084/jem.20220110. Epub 2022 Sep 26.

Abstract

Neonatal herpes simplex virus (nHSV) infections often result in significant mortality and neurological morbidity despite antiviral drug therapy. Maternally transferred herpes simplex virus (HSV)-specific antibodies reduce the risk of clinically overt nHSV, but this observation has not been translationally applied. Using a neonatal mouse model, we tested the hypothesis that passive transfer of HSV-specific human mAbs can prevent mortality and morbidity associated with nHSV. The mAbs were expressed in vivo via vectored immunoprophylaxis or recombinantly. Through these maternally derived routes or through direct administration to pups, diverse mAbs to HSV glycoprotein D protected against neonatal HSV-1 and HSV-2 infection. Using in vivo bioluminescent imaging, both pre- and post-exposure mAb treatment significantly reduced viral load in mouse pups. Together these studies support the notion that HSV-specific mAb-based therapies could prevent or improve HSV infection outcomes in neonates.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Animals, Newborn
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use
  • Antibodies, Viral
  • Antiviral Agents
  • Glycoproteins
  • Herpes Simplex*
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Morbidity
  • Pregnancy Complications, Infectious

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antibodies, Viral
  • Antiviral Agents
  • Glycoproteins

Supplementary concepts

  • Neonatal herpes