Antibodies are essential components of the human immune system. They protect the body from infections and diseases. This blog post will explain what antibodies are, how they work, and why they’re vital for our health. We’ll also discuss how the LWNVIVAT project uses this knowledge to develop vaccines and antibodies against the West Nile Virus (WNV).

What Are Antibodies?

Antibodies, or immunoglobulins, are specialized proteins produced by the immune system in response to foreign invaders called antigens. These can include viruses, bacteria, toxins, cancerous cells, and other harmful substances. Each antibody targets a specific antigen, like a lock and key.

B cells, a type of white blood cell, produce antibodies. When the immune system detects an antigen, B cells activate and begin producing antibodies tailored to that antigen.

How Do Antibodies Work?

Antibodies have several critical roles in defending the body. First, they neutralize pathogens by binding to them. For example, antibodies can bind to the West Nile Virus (WNV), preventing it from entering host cells or spreading throughout the body. They also signal immune cells, such as macrophages, to destroy the virus. Additionally, antibodies activate immune responses like the complement system and cause pathogens to clump together, making them easier for immune cells to capture and destroy.

The Structure of an Antibody

Antibodies have two main parts: the crystallizable fragment (Fc) and the antigen-binding fragment (Fab). The Fc part interacts with other immune system components, triggering an immune response and binding to immune cells. The Fab part binds to the pathogen and a specific antigen, allowing antibodies to fight various pathogens. This variability enables us to respond to a wide range of threats.

The Importance of Antibodies in Medicine

Antibodies play a crucial role in medicine and research. They are used in diagnostic tests to detect infections and diseases like HIV, hepatitis, and COVID-19. They also have therapeutic applications, enhancing the immune response to conditions like cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases.

In the LWNVIVAT project, we are developing antibodies to combat WNV. These antibodies are designed to have a high neutralizing capacity, meaning they will block the virus effectively. Our goal is for these antibodies to help treat individuals infected with WNV.