Measles Treatments Begin Development
Rising measles cases in the US accelerate treatment research.
1Increase in Measles Cases
Measles cases in the US have reached their highest level in 35 years. With vaccination rates declining, large outbreaks have occurred, particularly in South Carolina and Utah. In the first seven months of 2024, the total number of cases surpassed last year's 2,289. This situation has accelerated research into measles treatments. Biotech companies and academic groups have begun developing treatment methods for those infected with the virus and those needing short-term protection.
2Vaccination Rates and Community Impact
Measles is highly contagious, requiring at least 95% of the community to receive two doses of the vaccine. However, this rate has fallen below the threshold in many areas. This poses a serious risk for immunocompromised individuals and infants under 12 months old. Vaccine refusal has increased demand for measles treatments, but it remains uncertain when these treatments will be ready and whether they will be accepted by vaccine refusers.
3Role of Monoclonal Antibodies
Connecticut-based Invivyd is working on monoclonal antibodies. These antibodies mimic the natural antibodies the immune system produces to fight diseases. Widely used in Covid-19 treatment, this method was particularly effective for immunocompromised individuals who did not respond adequately to vaccines. Invivyd is attempting to develop a similar treatment for measles, but it has not yet been tested on humans.
4La Jolla Institute's Research
The La Jolla Institute of Immunology is investigating the human antibody response to the measles virus. A study published in May identified antibodies that bind to key sites on the measles virus, blocking infection. These antibodies reduced the viral load in rodents by 500-fold. However, large-scale production of monoclonal antibodies is needed before these treatments can be tested on humans.
5Clinical Trials and Financial Challenges
Clinical trials for monoclonal antibodies cost millions of dollars and often require funding from pharmaceutical companies. However, measles treatments may be a tough sell for pharma companies. The sporadic nature of outbreaks and short treatment courses mean that drugs for infectious diseases are usually not big money-makers.
6Cost of Measles Treatment
Monoclonal antibody treatments can be costly for patients and insurers. In early 2022, the US government spent $855 million for 1.7 million doses of Evusheld, a monoclonal antibody treatment authorized for Covid. While the medication itself was free to patients, some incurred hundreds of dollars in out-of-pocket costs related to the administration of the drug.
7Vanderbilt University's Contribution
Vanderbilt University developed a monoclonal antibody combination for Covid in just 25 days. The same team has discovered potent antibodies for measles. The university has partnered with small biotech firm Saravir Biopharma to continue developing these antibodies. Immunologist James Crowe aims to use a combination of two monoclonal antibodies to drastically reduce the chances of the measles virus mutating to evade treatment.
8Next Steps and Challenges
Once monoclonal antibodies are ready for human testing, regulators will need to determine how to evaluate them in clinical trials. New drugs are typically tested in adults first to ensure they are safe for children. However, measles complications are more likely to hospitalize children, particularly those who are unvaccinated. This may require a reevaluation of treatment strategies.
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