Method of boosting the immune response in neonates
In an aspect, a method of augmenting an immune response in a subject in need thereof, comprising identifying the subject, and treating the subject to inhibit the immune suppressive effect of CD71 + cells is provided. Further provided is a method of preventing, treating or ameliorating an infection in a subject, comprising administering to the subject an agent that reduces the level of CD71 + cells in the subject.
1. A method of augmenting an immune response in a subject in need thereof, comprising:
a) identifying the subject; and
b) administering to the subject an agent that specifically binds to CD71, wherein the agent that specifically binds to CD71 is an anti-CD71 antibody, wherein the subject is a neonate or a newborn, and wherein administration of the anti-CD71 antibody leads to an inhibition of an immune suppressive effect of CD71 + cells.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the anti-CD71 antibody is R17217.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the anti-CD71 antibody is C2F2.
4. A method of treating or ameliorating an infection in a subject, comprising administering to the subject an agent that reduces the level of CD71 + cells in the subject, wherein the agent specifically binds to CD71, wherein the agent is an anti-CD71 antibody, and wherein the subject is a neonate or a newborn.
5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the anti-CD71 antibody is a humanized antibody.
6. The method of claim 4 , wherein the anti-CD71 antibody is a human antibody.
7. The method of claim 4 , wherein the agent downregulates the level of CD71 + cells.
8. The method of claim 4 , comprising identifying the subject at risk for the infection.
9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the newborn is less than 28 days old.
10. The method of claim 4 , wherein the newborn is less than 28 or days old.