Motavizumab

About Motavizumab

Motavizumab is an experimental, humanized monoclonal antibody that is currently being investigated by Astra Zeneca/MedImmune for the prevention of serious lower respiratory tract infection in high-risk infants caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV causes acute respiratory tract illness in patients of all ages, but in infants and children, RSV may cause bronchiolitis and pneumonia. RSV infections are most prevalent between mid-September and April.

How Motavizumab Works

Motavizumab is directed to an epitope in the A antigenic site of the F protein of RSV. Motavizumab binds to the RSV F-glycoprotein. Motavizumab exhibits neutralizing and fusion-inhibitory activity against RSV that prevents RSV replication.

Clinical Trials

In January 2008, Astra Zeneca/MedImmune submitted a biologics license application for motavizumab for the prevention of serious lower respiratory tract infection caused by RSV in high risk children. In December 2008, the company received a complete response letter from USFDA asking for additional information on motavizumab. Astra Zeneca/MedImmune has said that it will respond to USFDA’s questions.