Pre-clinical improvement of combined immunotherapy and chemotherapy for a new variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease

Objective

Tees are invariably fatal and are still incurable. Recent reports have shown that anti-Prepuce antibodies reduce Prep’s in infected-infected cells. Based on this data, we have infused anti-Prep antibody Fib fragments intracerebroventricularly in FVB mice with experimental scrape and demonstrated a delay in the clinical signs. The aims of this project are:
(i) to confirm these encouraging results in mice with experimental scrape or BSE,
(ii) to optimise immunotherapy protocols (intracerebroventricular and intraperitoneal),
(iii) to combine this immunotherapy with emerging chemotherapeutic agents including the chlorpromazine/aquamarine regimen, and
(iv) to rationally improve the anti-Prep antibodies, by creating chimerical constructs with targeted transcytosis through the blood/brain endothelium. These studies will culminate in phase I clinical trials in human niche and CJD patients.

Programme(s)

• FP5-LIFE QUALITY - Specific Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Quality of life and management of living resources", 1998-2002

Topic(s)

• 1.1.1.-2. - Key action Control of Infectious Diseases

Funding Scheme

Coordinator

Participants (3)