Dutch biotechnology company Crucell N.V. (Euronext, NASDAQ: CRXL, Swiss Exchange: CRX) today announced that its researchers have discovered a monoclonal antibody that is active against H5N1 avian influenza. The studies will be presented at the 5th International Bird Flu Summit scheduled for September 27 and 28 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Crucell researchers produced antibodies in PERC6® cells and tested their biophysical and immunological properties.

"Using phage display technology a set of human monoclonal antibodies active against a broad range of distinct H5N1 strains was developed," said Crucell Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Jaap Goudsmit. "We will show the ability of these antibodies to prevent infection as well as to prevent and cure disease caused by H5N1 virus in mice."

Crucell will provide more information about the research findings during the two-day conference in Las Vegas.