BALB/c mice successfully management ZIKV an infection, however virus can persist within the eye. Credit score: Journal of Virology (2025). DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01147-25
A brand new examine from the College of Alabama at Birmingham reveals that an antibody initially designed to battle dengue virus might also block the unfold of Zika virus in weak areas of the physique—together with the reproductive organs.
The findings, revealed within the Journal of Virology, provide new hope within the battle towards a virus that has affected greater than 80 nations since 2007 and poses critical dangers to pregnant girls and their infants.
What makes Zika particularly harmful is its capacity to cover in protected areas of the physique, together with the mind, eyes and reproductive organs, the place it could possibly linger undetected. Much more troubling, Zika might be handed by way of intercourse or from a pregnant mom to her child, probably resulting in extreme start defects.
On this new examine, led by J. Victor Garcia, Ph.D., and Angela Wahl, Ph.D., of the Division of Microbiology at UAB, scientists examined the effectiveness of the C10 dengue virus antibody utilizing a novel preclinical in vivo mannequin. They discovered {that a} single dose of C10 administered earlier than Zika virus publicity:
Considerably suppressed viral replication in blood and tissues
Prevented viral shedding in saliva and reproductive secretions
Lowered viral ranges within the mind, eyes and reproductive organs
Improved survival charges in preclinical fashions
“Our work lays the foundation for deploying passive immunization strategies in high-risk populations,” Garcia stated. “This could be a game-changer in outbreak response, especially in regions where Zika is endemic or resurging.”
Researchers evaluated the antiviral compound DFMA (7-deaza-2′-C-methyladenosine), which considerably decreased viremia and extended survival in a preclinical mannequin.
“This study provides compelling evidence that antibody-based therapies can be used to reduce systemic infection and target the very tissues where Zika hides and causes the most damage,” Wahl stated. “This is especially important for protecting pregnant individuals and preventing sexual transmission during future outbreaks.”
Presently, there aren’t any accepted therapies for Zika virus. This analysis marks a major step towards growing efficient countermeasures towards future outbreaks.
Different collaborating establishments on this examine embrace the College of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Emory College.
Extra data:
Nathaniel J. Schramm et al, Envelope-dimer epitope 1 (EDE1) antibody (C10) therapy considerably reduces Zika virus replication within the female and male reproductive tracts, Journal of Virology (2025). DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01147-25
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Antibody remedy exhibits promise in decreasing Zika virus in reproductive tissues (2025, August 19)
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