Certain Antibodies Show Potential Against Bacteria

New research has shown that certain antihapten antibodies have the potential to serve as antimicrobial agents.

In preclinical studies, lead antibodies were identified against the signaling molecules of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Blocking this signaling stops the bacteria from communicating, so they cannot cause disease. The application of using antibody therapies that have affinity and specificity for signaling molecules involved in the processes of bacterial cell-to-cell communication has been patented by Haptogen Ltd. (Aberdeen, UK). By binding to such molecules, these receptors can be used to block the vital signaling events involved in inducing a virulent state in opportunistic and other pathogens.

"We believe that our unique Haptomics approach can deliver novel and effective new antimicrobial agents, without encouraging the development of further drug-resistant strains,” said Jim Reid, CEO of Haptogen.

In other research under way at Haptogen, blocking cell-to-cell signaling in humans with specific, targeted antibodies has shown significant promise. This may result in new therapeutics to treat obesity and central nervous system disease, says the company.




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