Epidemics are occurring at an increasing pace and scale. Our laboratory group has developed platform technologies for discovery of broad and potent neutralizing antibodies for many emerging infectious diseases. Studying diverse pathogens, we have discovered general principles about the genetic, molecular, and structural basis for virus neutralization by human antibodies. I will discuss mechanisms of neutralization and review specific case studies of antibiotic discovery programs for emerging infections leading to therapeutic drug candidates now in the clinic.

Learning Objectives:

1. Explain the concepts of sites of vulnerability for antibody-mediated neutralization

2. Define 3 common mechanisms of virus neutralization

3. Explain the rationale for rational selection of antibody combinations