Biologic
RCSB PDB 2HWZ
Palivizumab
Synagis
- Mechanism of action
- RSV F protein antagonist (mAb)
- In plain language
- A lab-made antibody that attaches to RSV, a common respiratory virus, and blocks it from fusing with and infecting cells.
- How it works
- Palivizumab is a recombinant humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody directed against an epitope on the RSV fusion (F) glycoprotein, conserved across both RSV subtypes. By binding RSV F, it blocks the conformational changes required for viral membrane fusion with the host cell, preventing viral entry and cell-to-cell spread. It confers passive, temporary immunity rather than stimulating the recipient's own immune response.
- Therapeutic applications
- Indicated for prophylaxis of serious RSV lower respiratory tract disease in high-risk pediatric patients, including infants born at 35 weeks gestation or earlier, and children with bronchopulmonary dysplasia or hemodynamically significant congenital heart disease. Not indicated for treatment of established RSV disease.
- Class
- Monoclonal antibody
- Therapeutic area
- Infectious Disease
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