Cross-Protective Antibodies Against Common Endemic Respiratory Viruses

Abstract

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human metapneumovirus (HMPV), and human parainfluenza virus types one (HPIV1) and three (HPIV3) are a major cause of death, morbidity, and health care costs worldwide, and they can exact a significant toll on immunocompromised patients, the elderly, and those with underlying lung disease. There is an unmet medical need for safe and effective medications for many of the viruses responsible for common respiratory viral infections in vulnerable patient populations. While a protective monoclonal antibody exists for RSV, clinical use is limited to high-risk infant populations. Here, we present the discovery, in vitro characterization, and in vivo efficacy testing of two cross-neutralizing monoclonal antibodies, one targeting both HPIV3 and HPIV1 and the other targeting both RSV and HMPV. The 3x1 antibody is capable of targeting multiple parainfluenza viruses; the MxR antibody shares features with other previously reported monoclonal antibodies that are capable of neutralizing both RSV and HMPV. We obtained structures using cryo-electron microscopy of these antibodies in complex with their antigens to 3.62 [A] resolution for 3x1:HPIV3 and to 2.24 [A] for MxR:RSV, providing a structural basis to corroborate our in vitro characterization of binding and neutralization. Together, a cocktail of 3x1 and MxR could have clinical utility in providing broad protection against four of the respiratory viruses that cause significant morbidity and mortality in at-risk individuals.