The protective potential of Fc-mediated antibody functions against influenza virus and other viral pathogens

Hillary A. Vanderven, Stephen J. Kent

Research output: Contribution to journalReview ArticleResearchpeer-review

37 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in utilizing antibody fragment crystallizable (Fc) functions to prevent and control viral infections. The protective and therapeutic potential of Fc-mediated antibody functions have been assessed for some clinically important human viruses, including HIV, hemorrhagic fever viruses and influenza virus. There is mounting evidence that influenza-specific antibodies with Fc-mediated functions, such as antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity and antibody-dependent phagocytosis, can aid in the clearance of influenza virus infection. Recent influenza challenge studies and intravenous immunoglobulin G therapy studies in humans suggest a protective role for Fc effector functions in vivo. Broadly reactive influenza antibodies with Fc-mediated functions are prevalent in the human population and could inform the development of a universally protective influenza vaccine or therapy. In this review, we explore the utility of antibodies with Fc-mediated effector functions against viral infections with a focus on influenza virus.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)253-263
Number of pages11
JournalImmunology and Cell Biology
Volume98
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Apr 2020

Keywords

  • Antibodies
  • antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity
  • antibody-dependent phagocytosis
  • Fc receptors
  • influenza virus
  • natural killer cells

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