Phosphotidylserine is an anionic phospholipid that is normally
present on the inner surface of cell membranes. In cells
infected with a wide range of enveloped viruses, however, the
phosphotidylserine becomes exposed on the outside of the cell
membrane. The monoclonal antibody, bavituximab, binds to the
exposed phospholipid and alerts the immune system to attack the
virally infected cells. Bavituximab is currently undergoing
clinical trials for the treatment of hepatitis C virus
infection. New animal studies now show that bavituximab is able
to protect against a broader range of viruses. Guinea pigs were
infected with Pichinide virus, which is similar to human Lassa
fever virus. Whilst all the untreated animals died, half of
those treated with bavituximab recovered. The surviving animals
also had long-term immunity to further infection with the
Pichinide virus. This is the first report of an effective
treatment against advanced Lassa-like fever infections in
animals. Bavituximab treatment also cured mice infe