Researchers from a major American university and partners in the pharmaceutical sector have unveiled an experimental monoclonal antibody that targets Nipah virus, a zoonotic pathogen considered among the most dangerous to humans. The work is described in a recent peer‑reviewed study within a prominent medical science journal.
Nipah virus is a highly pathogenic zoonotic paramyxovirus that causes recurrent outbreaks in humans and animals across parts of South and Southeast Asia, according to the collaborating teams. Like other well known pathogens such as Ebola, SARS, SARS‑CoV‑2, and Marburg, Nipah originated in bats. Infected individuals can suffer severe respiratory illness and brain swelling, and there is currently no approved vaccine or cure. Mortality rates in past outbreaks have been alarmingly high, underscoring the need for effective countermeasures.
The scientists engineered an improved monoclonal antibody that targets the Nipah virus form of the F protein, designated hu1F5. The antibody’s performance was evaluated in animal models to gauge its protective potential against Nipah infection.
In experimental settings, administration of hu1F5 one day after exposure led to complete survival in hamster models. Remarkably, the antibody also offered protection to African green monkeys even when treatment began five days after infection, indicating a robust window for therapeutic intervention.
These findings suggest that hu1F5 could become part of a broader strategy to prevent or lessen disease severity in people exposed to Nipah virus, contributing to the pipeline of antiviral drugs and preventive measures for at‑risk populations.
Experts emphasize that Nipah and other animal‑borne diseases continue to pose a rising threat to human health, underscoring the importance of rapid development and testing of targeted therapies. The study provides proof‑of‑concept that monoclonal antibodies can be engineered to neutralize critical components of Nipah virus and support healthier outcomes in early treatment scenarios.