Virus inactivation by addition of neutralizing antibodies

This study has shown that the principle of virus neutralization by specific antibodies is feasible at least in the case of hepatitis B. Virus neutralization is our preferred method since it entails no loss of functional activity and no risk of induction of neo-antigens in the plasma derivatives. Although double-blind clinical trials have not been performed, this study--in combination with some other studies - brought the conclusive evidence that virus neutralization in the case of hepatitis B transmission is efficacious. The suggested occurrence of side effects related to the formation of immune complexes during or after administration is not borne out by more than 7 years of experience with neutralized plasma derivatives with no reported side effects. Whether this method is useful for other viruses will depend on the availability of specific neutralizing antibodies.