| abstract |
FIELD: biotechnology. n SUBSTANCE: monoclonal neutralizing antibodies, that specifically bind to the membrane-proximal external region (MPER) of HIV-1 gp41, are described. Also, compositions, comprising the antibodies described herein, that specifically bind to gp41; nucleic acids encoding these antibodies; expression vectors containing nucleic acids; and isolated host cells expressing such nucleic acids are described. The antibodies and compositions described herein can be used to detect the presence of HIV-1 in biological sample or detect the presence of HIV-1 infection or diacrisis of AIDS in an individual. In addition, the antibodies described herein, due to their broad spectrum of neutralizing activity, are an ideal tool for treating an individual with HIV infection. n EFFECT: methods described herein may be used to treat or prevent HIV infection. n 41 cl, 61 dwg, 8 ex |