The neutralizing antibody GNbAC1 abrogates HERV-W envelope protein-mediated oligodendroglial maturation blockade.

Background: The envelope protein (ENV) of the human endogenous retrovirus type W is implicated in inflammatory reactions in multiple sclerosis (MS) but also interferes with oligodendroglial maturation. A neutralizing antibody GNbAC1 has been developed and successfully been tested in clinical trials. Objectives and methods: We stimulated primary oligodendroglial cells with ENV upon preincubation with GNbAC1 and assessed for nitrosative stress and myelin expression. Results: Neutralization of ENV by GNbAC1 reduces its ability to induce stress reactions resulting in a rescue of myelin expression. Conclusions: Beyond immune cell modulation, this monoclonal antibody may therefore help to overcome the oligodendroglial differentiation blockade in MS.