Scientists have developed a new weapon against HIV-1 using special antibodies from llamas. These antibodies, known as nanobodies, are tiny but powerful. Researchers immunized a llama with a protein from the HIV-1 virus, which helped the llama produce these nanobodies.

Two particularly effective nanobodies, named G36 and R27, were identified. When these nanobodies were engineered into a special format that combined them with human antibodies, they could neutralize 96% of a diverse group of 208 HIV-1 strains. This means they were very effective at stopping the virus from infecting cells.

The team then created a new type of antibody by linking these llama nanobodies with a human antibody targeting another part of the virus. This new bispecific antibody, called CAP256L-R27×3LS, showed extraordinary potency and breadth. It neutralized almost all tested HIV-1 strains at very low concentrations.

Using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, scientists were able to see how these nanobodies bind to the HIV-1 virus. They mimic the virus's natural target, the CD4 receptor, which helps them block the virus effectively.

This study suggests that combining llama nanobodies with human antibodies could lead to new treatments and preventive measures against HIV-1. The next steps will involve further testing to ensure these bispecific antibodies are safe and effective in humans.

This research brings hope for better therapies and vaccines against HIV-1, offering new tools in the fight against this persistent virus.