Researchers have discovered a new class of antibodies that can neutralize multiple forms of flu virus, potentially leading to the development of more broadly protective flu vaccines. These antibodies can bind to a viral protein called hemagglutinin on the exterior of the flu virus, blocking it from entering cells. The research, published in the journal PLOS Biology, identified antibodies capable of neutralizing both H3 and H1 strains of flu, even when the H1 strain contains a specific genetic change. This discovery offers new possibilities for the development of improved flu vaccines that provide broader protection against different flu strains and may lead to a move away from the traditional method of flu vaccine production.
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Previously unrecognized class of antibodies can broadly neutralize multiple virus strains
