Complex of a protective antibody with its Ebola virus GP peptide epitope: unusual features of a Vλx-light chain

摘要

13F6-1-2 is a murine monoclonal antibody that recognizes the heavily glycosylated mucin-like domain of the Ebola virus virion-attached glycoprotein (GP) and protects animals against lethal viral challenge. Here we present the crystal structure, at 2.0 Å, of 13F6-1-2 in complex with its Ebola virus GP peptide epitope. The GP peptide binds in an extended conformation, anchored primarily by interactions to the heavy chain. Two GP residues, Gln P406 and Arg P409, make extensive side chain hydrogen bond and electrostatic interactions to the antibody and are likely critical for recognition and affinity. The 13F6-1-2 antibody utilizes a rare Vλx light chain. The three light chain complementarity determining regions (CDRs) do not adopt canonical conformations and represent new classes of structures distinct from Vκ and other Vλ light chains. In addition, although Vλx had been thought to confer specificity, all light chain contacts are mediated through germline-encoded residues. This structure of an antibody that protects against the Ebola virus now provides a framework for humanization and development of a post-exposure immunotherapeutic.