Antibody Found to Neutralize Resilient Dengue Virus Serotype

Singapore, July 3, 2015 – A research team led by Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School Singapore (Duke-NUS) has identified a human antibody that can neutralize dengue virus serotype 2 (DENV-2) across all its structural forms. The discovery, published in the journal Science, could advance the development of dengue therapeutics.

Dengue virus circulates in four serotypes (DENV1-4), complicating treatment as protection requires a robust antibody response against all types. Currently, no licensed vaccine is available, and dengue infects approximately 400 million people worldwide annually.

The study detailed how a potent human-derived antibody, designated 2D22, can neutralize DENV-2. Previous research had identified antibodies effective only against specific morphologies of DENV-2. In contrast, this newly discovered antibody can combat the virus regardless of its structural configuration.

"The new human antibody not only kills DENV-2 but also prevents the development of severe disease stimulated by weaker antibodies," said senior author Associate Professor Shee-Mei Lok. This highlights the antibody's potential for dengue treatment.

Lok's team is working to identify an antibody effective against DENV-4 to complete a combination therapy targeting all four serotypes. The research involved collaborators from Vanderbilt University, the University of North Carolina, and the University of California, Berkeley, and was supported by the Singapore Ministry of Education Academic Research Fund.