Monoclonal antibodies have been widely used as a therapy for COVID-19. The focus thus far has been on neutralizing antibodies that block viral entry into host cells. However, a typical immune response mostly leads to antibodies that cannot neutralize but help clear the infection by promoting immune cell function through opsonization. The constant antibody domain determines its class and subclass and can directly influence immune effects. Here, we show that switching subclass can modulate the immune response against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Further, we enhance antibody-mediated immune function by combining antibodies into cocktails. This study highlights how antibody subclass engineering and incorporating antibodies into cocktails can modulate the efficacy of antibodies as potential therapeutics against viral infections.
If you want to read the full article please click here to go to the PNAS website!