Title : The therapeutic potential of IgM monoclonal antibody in a mouse model of disseminated invasive aspergillosis
Abstract:
Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a life-threatening disease caused primarily by Aspergillus fumigatus, followed by Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus terreus and Aspergillus niger. Despite the advances in antifungal therapies, IA remains associated with a high morbidity and mortality, largely due to the challenges in early diagnosis and limited treatment options. Current diagnostic methods often lack sensitivity and specificity, while existing antifungal drugs are frequently associated with toxicity and resistance. Our group has produced a monoclonal antibody (mAb) (IgM) against A. fumigatus hyphae. Previous work from our group has shown in vitro, following the addition of our mAb to Aspergillus species, inhibited conidial growth and damaged hyphae. The next steps are to assess the therapeutic potential of these mAbs in a disseminated mouse model of IA, with treatment initiated 6hrs post Aspergillus inoculation.
