Researchers discover effective SARS virus antibodies

AORN Journal, August, 2007

American, Swiss, and Australian researchers have identified two human antibodies that are effective in neutralizing different strains of the virus that causes severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), according to a July 2, 2007, article from HealthDay News. This finding is significant for the process of developing treatment medications as well as vaccines to protect patients against this potentially fatal virus.

The SARS coronavirus lie, SARS-CoV) was responsible for a worldwide epidemic in late 2002 and early 2003, and it was fatal for approximately 10% of the 8,000 people infected. Another, smatter outbreak occurred in the winter of 2003/2004, during which only four individuals were infected. The virus is transmitted from animals to humans, making future outbreaks stilt possible.

The two antibodies were discovered in the blood of human patients. One antibody lie, $230.15) came from a patient who recovered from SARS. The other, (ie, m396) was found in a library of human antibodies derived from the blood of 10 healthy volunteers. Both of these antibodies affect a binding protein on the surface of the virus and thus may prove effective in the prevention and treatment of SARS infection.

Gardner A. Scientists spot antibodies that could fight SARS. HealthDay. July 2, 2007. http://www.healthday.com/Article .asp?AID=606121. Accessed July 3, 2007.