Horse antibodies were produced by virologist that was proven to be potential in preventing the mortality of non-human pirates if given within 24 hours after exposure to a lethal dose of Ebola Virus. Alexander Khromykh, a professor of Molecular Virology in University of Queensland located in Australia was one of the pioneers of the research.
According to Digital Trends, the post-exposure treatment was continuously given for five days. The treatment regimen during the experimental trial is sufficient to suppress or even stop the spread of the Ebola virus in other uninfected animals. The treatment also aimed to allow the animals develop their immunity against the virus until the infections are cleared.
Khromykh also revealed that they have created monoclonal antibodies that are almost close to the horse antibodies they used during the experiment. These monoclonal antibodies were used to treat medical professionals that may be infected with Ebola Virus.
Before the discovery of horse antibodies, as revealed by World Health Organization, there is no proven treatment for Ebola Virus. Supportive care such as oral rehydrating salts or intravenous fluids was known to improve survival.
Potential platform treatments are also currently evaluated and under trials such as blood products, immune therapies, and drug therapies. Moreover, there were no licensed and proven vaccines yet but two potential vaccines are still under clinical safety testing.
On the other hand, the monoclonal antibodies to conquer Ebola Virus might not be easy to produce. Large quantities of monoclonal antibodies might be hard to manufacture because it is expensive and also requires specialized facilities. The new alternative, however, is much easier as there is already a wide production of equine antibody production worldwide.
Khromykh revealed that they are trying to generate enough materials and equipment in order to be ready for the next Ebola Virus outbreak. Although the task of developing the medicinal substance is high and hard, prevention and control is still the best first line of action.
