Nanobody Shows Promise in Blocking Herpes Virus Infection
HAMBURG, GERMANY – Scientists have identified a nanobody – a synthetic antibody – capable of neutralizing both Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2) by preventing viral entry into cells. The breakthrough, detailed in a new study published in Nature, offers a potential new avenue for treating and preventing herpes infections, particularly in vulnerable populations.
The research, a collaboration between teams at the University of Hamburg, the CSSB (Center for Structural Systems Biology), and the Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, utilized high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy to visualize how the nanobody binds to a key viral protein, glycoprotein B (GB). This binding effectively blocks the conformational change GB needs to undergo to fuse with cell membranes, thus halting infection. “Our results suggest that the binding of the nanobodies prevents the protein from changing its shape in such a way that it can merge the membranes. The infection is prevented,” explained Professor Kay Grünewald of the University of Hamburg.
Herpes viruses are widespread, causing infections ranging from cold sores to genital herpes, and can remain latent in the body for life. Current treatments focus on managing outbreaks, but a preventative or curative approach has remained elusive. This new research suggests nanobodies could offer both.
Senior scientist Benjamin Vollmer, initial author of the study, highlighted the potential benefits for individuals with weakened immune systems: “The nanobodies can not only be used in the event of an existing herpes infection along with the common medication. In the future, they could protect particularly endangered persons from herpes infection or the renewed breaking out of a latent infection.” This includes newborns, HIV-infected individuals, cancer patients, those with autoimmune diseases, and organ transplant recipients. The nanobodies could also possibly prevent newborns from contracting herpes during childbirth if administered to the mother during an active infection.
A patent application has been filed to further develop the nanobodies for clinical application and seek industry partnerships.
Contact:
Prof.Dr. Kay Grünewald
University of Hamburg
+49 40 8998 87700
kay.gruenewald@cssb-hamburg.de
Prof. Dr. Dirk Görlich
Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry
+49 551 201-2400
goerlich@mpinat.mpg.de
Original Publication:
Vollmer, B.; Ebel, H.; Rees, R.; Nentwig, J.; Mulvaney T.; Schünemann, J.; Krull, J.; Pot, m.; Görlich,D.; grünewald, K.: A nanobody specific to prefusion glycoprotein B neutralises HSV -1 and -2. In: Nature
