Currently, no specific vaccine or treatment is available for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), but recent findings have identified weaknesses in the virus, which may lead to the development of targeted therapies in the future.
Discovery of vulnerabilities
Discovered by Dr. Anthony Epstein and Yvonne Barr in 1964, the virus Epstein-Barr (EBV) is one of the most widespread viruses in the world. It actually affects environ 95 % of the world's population at some point in their lives. Although EBV infection is often asymptomatic and goes unnoticed, the virus can cause serious illnesses such as infectious mononucleosis, multiple sclerosis and certain types of cancer, including lymphoma. Until recently, EBV remained a challenge in treatment and prevention, largely due to the absence of a vaccine and specific therapies targeting the virus.
However, a significant breakthrough in research could be a game-changer. Scientists from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) have indeed highlighted vulnerabilities in the structure of the EBV virusincluding focusing on a key protein used by the virus to infect B cells of the immune system. These B cells can harbor the virus latently, allowing EBV to remain in the body indefinitely.
Towards an anti-EBV shield
The study specifically identified two monoclonal antibodies, named A10 and 4C12which effectively target the gp42 protein of the virus. This plays a crucial role in the ability of the virus to bind to and enter B cells, thereby facilitating infection. Both antibodies work primarily by blocking this key interaction, which prevents the virus from infiltrating B cells. X-ray crystallography revealed that A10 and 4C12 bind to two distinct sites on the gp42 protein, providing a double barrier against infection.
Tests on animal models, notably mice, have shown promising results. In particular, the A10 antibody was able to almost completely block EBV infection. Additionally, none of the mice treated with A10 developed lymphoma, suggesting that this antibody could provide significant protection against EBV-related cancers.
Although additional studies are needed to confirm these results in humans, this research marks a significant step toward better prevention and treatment of EBV.
Ultimately, researchers hope that these antibodies could be used not only to prevent EBV infection in uninfected individuals, but also to provide a new treatment option for those who are already infected or at risk of developing EBV infections. serious complications linked to EBV. The public health implications are considerable, especially for immunocompromised individuals or those undergoing organ transplants, who are particularly vulnerable to serious illness caused by EBV.
Towards combined therapies and expanded prevention
The discoveries surrounding monoclonal antibodies A10 and 4C12 also open the way to new combined therapeutic strategies. By simultaneously targeting multiple stages of the viral cycle, such as entry into B cells and reactivation of latent virus, these approaches could provide more comprehensive protection. Furthermore, researchers are exploring the possibility of combining these antibodies with specific antivirals to maximize their effectiveness. This advance could not only transform the management of acute and chronic infections linked to EBV, but also constitute a model for the treatment of other latent viruses, such as herpesvirus. Finally, the development of a preventive vaccine based on this research could protect the most exposed populations and considerably reduce the global impact of pathologies associated with EBV.
Details of the study are published in the journal Immunity.
