Broadly neutralizing antibodies against influenza virus and prospects for universal therapies

Vaccines are the gold standard for the control and prevention of infectious diseases, but a number of important human diseases remain challenging targets for vaccine development. An influenza vaccine that confers broad spectrum, long-term protection remains elusive. Several broadly neutralizing antibodies have been identified that protect against multiple subtypes of influenza A viruses, and crystal structures of several neutralizing antibodies in complex with the major influenza surface antigen, hemagglutinin, have revealed at least 3 highly conserved epitopes. Our understanding of the molecular details of these antibody–antigen interactions has suggested new strategies for the rational design of improved influenza vaccines, and has inspired the development of new antivirals for the treatment of influenza infections.

► Broadly neutralizing antibodies to influenza virus. ► Three major protective epitopes on influenza hemagglutinin. ► Design of novel immunogens. ► Therapeutic antibodies and small proteins.