Characterisation of broadly neutralising antibodies against the hepatitis C virus
Despite improved methods of treatment, an infection with the hepatitis C virus still leads to approximately 400,000 deaths worldwide each year. The development of a vaccine is urgently required, but has failed until now because of the genetic diversity and high mutation rate of the virus. A team led by scientists at the Cologne University Hospital and the German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) investigated the immune response in more detail and was able to isolate broad spectrum antibodies from a group of patients who, as “elite neutralisers”, can attack extraordinarily many virus variants simultaneously. The scientists have now been able to detect the particular properties of these antibodies. The discovery could be an important step on the way to a vaccine.