Dr. Mar Naranjo Gómez, and Dr. Mireia Pelegrin researchers at INSERM within the IRMB, co-lead the Antibodies Immunomodulation group.  They have extensive experience in evaluating the efficacy of vaccine and antibody-based therapies in generating protective immune responses. Together, they co-lead the LWNVIVAT Work Package 5 (WP5), which focuses on assessing the adjuvant effects of antibodies in West Nile Virus (WNV) vaccine development. In addition, they are also part of Work Package 7 (WP7) conducting in vivo studies together with Professor Yannik Simonin.

What is the primary goal of your research?

Our research aims to dissect antibody-mediated immune responses using state-of-the-art technologies. We focus on the complex interactions between various immune cell types. Our findings highlight that protective immune responses are not driven by a single cell type but rather involve intricate coordination among multiple immune cells.

What are your latest findings?

We have demonstrated that monoclonal antibody (mAb)-based immunotherapies do more than simply neutralize viruses, they can also induce long-lasting immune protection, known as vaccinal effects. Using a murine model of retroviral infection, we identified key immune cell populations and molecular pathways involved in this enhanced antiviral response, all of which depend on Fcγ receptor (FcγR) signaling.

One of our most striking discoveries is the unexpected role of neutrophils in supporting humoral immunity. Upon activation through FcγR, neutrophils acquire B-cell helper functions, including the production of BAFF, a cytokine that promotes sustained antibody production. We also found that neutrophils and monocytes act in a coordinated sequence during mAb therapy, releasing Th1-polarizing cytokines that shape the immune response. 

In addition, natural killer (NK) cells play a dual role: they help control viral replication to prevent immune exhaustion and enhance neutrophil-driven B-cell responses through IFN-γ production. 

What are the next steps in your research related to the LWNVIVAT project?

As part of the LWNVIVAT project, we will evaluate the adjuvant effects of antibodies in the development of WNV vaccines and investigate the potential for Fc-mediated enhancement of antiviral immunity. Our work will also involve assessing the prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy of selected vaccine candidates and monoclonal antibodies in a mouse model of WNV infection.