Human monoclonal antibodies that bind hepatitis C virus (HCV) E1
The present invention relates to materials and methods for treatment of hepatitis C. More closely, the invention relates to human monoclonal antibodies against HCV E1 antigen, to a reagent comprising such antibodies, and to vaccine compositions comprising such antibodies. Futhermore, the invention relates to a method of treating or preventing HCV infection by administration of a vaccine composition comprising the monoclonal antibodies of the invention.
1. A recombinantly produced human monoclonal antibody or antigen binding fragments thereof having immunological binding affinity for hepatitis C virus (HCV) E1, wherein said monoclonal antibody or antigen binding fragment thereof comprises SEQ ID NO: 49.
2. The monoclonal antibody or antigen binding fragment thereof according to claim 1 , wherein the monoclonal antibody or antigen binding fragment thereof reacts with complexed HCV E1/E2 antigen.
3. The monoclonal antibody or antigen binding fragment thereof according to claim 1 , fused with a further substance for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.
4. An immunological reagent comprising the monoclonal antibody or antigen binding fragment thereof according to claim 1 .