Now is the time to combat lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus after gaining insights from it

The lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) has long been studied by scientists due to its ability to infect both humans and animals. While it rarely causes severe illness in healthy individuals, LCMV can be dangerous for those with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, and fetuses. Over the years, researchers have learned a great deal about the virus and how it operates, but up until now, our ability to control its spread has been limited. However, with recent advances in gene editing and vaccine development, we may finally have the tools needed to fight LCMV head-on. In this article, we’ll explore what we’ve learned about LCMV so far, and discuss how these new technologies could help us combat this formidable pathogen.


Researchers at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) have designed an antibody targeted at glycoprotein shields that protect lymphatic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) from the immune system. The newly engineered antibody can neutralize the LCMV virus, preventing infection from occurring and treating established infections, according to a study published in Cell Chemical Biology. Antibodies have had trouble targeting the virus because of it propensity to quickly unfold on interaction with the host’s acidic environments, but the new study provides insights into the virus’ machinery, offering researchers broad vaccination strategies that may provide a new pathway for medical treatment. Previous studies of the virus, carried by rodents, have provided insights into how the body’s immune system fights and recognizes invaders, which has led to an understanding of how T-cells remember past infections. Since the LCMV virus can spread quickly and is prevalent worldwide, the World Health Organisation has identified this virus as a priority for vaccine development.

Researchers have never before had such a close look at LCMV virus’ inner workings, and the new structure reveals precisely where the virus may be vulnerable to antibody attack. The study represents the first time that scientists have been able to have access to an engineered antibody that is successful in treating LCMV. For Kathryn Hastie, Director of the LJI Antibody Discovery Center, the M28 antibody demonstrated the first successful therapy against LCMV by preventing the virus from undergoing a conformational change that leads to infection. After success with M28 in mice, researchers hope to identify more antibodies that have potential applications in neutralizing LCMV, leading to the creation of a general vaccine that would protect against a range of arenaviruses. Ultimately, research could lead to the creation of new therapies and vaccines to address a previously untreatable and globally common disease.


In conclusion, scientists have made great strides in understanding lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), paving the way for effective treatment and prevention strategies. This research is crucial not only for LCMV but for other zoonotic viruses that pose a threat to human health. As the world faces the COVID-19 pandemic, the lessons learned from studying LCMV can inform our approach to future outbreaks. With continued dedication and collaboration, we have the potential to overcome even the most challenging health crises. Let us do our part by staying informed, practicing good hygiene, and supporting those on the frontlines of infectious disease research.