Pharmaceutics (May 2023)

Uses and Challenges of Antiviral Polyclonal and Monoclonal Antibody Therapies

  • Evi B. Struble,
  • Jonathan M. O. Rawson,
  • Tzanko Stantchev,
  • Dorothy Scott,
  • Marjorie A. Shapiro

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15051538
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 15, no. 5
p. 1538

Abstract

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Viral diseases represent a major public health concerns and ever-present risks for developing into future pandemics. Antiviral antibody therapeutics, either alone or in combination with other therapies, emerged as valuable preventative and treatment options, including during global emergencies. Here we will discuss polyclonal and monoclonal antiviral antibody therapies, focusing on the unique biochemical and physiological properties that make them well-suited as therapeutic agents. We will describe the methods of antibody characterization and potency assessment throughout development, highlighting similarities and differences between polyclonal and monoclonal products as appropriate. In addition, we will consider the benefits and challenges of antiviral antibodies when used in combination with other antibodies or other types of antiviral therapeutics. Lastly, we will discuss novel approaches to the characterization and development of antiviral antibodies and identify areas that would benefit from additional research.

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