Applications of IgY in human medicine

ABSTRACT

In this chapter we will focus on the potential applications of IgY in human medicine, summarizing some of in vivo and in vitro studies that support them. Respiratory infections caused by viruses and bacteria have a major impact in human health, and are associated with other major underlying conditions, such as cardiopulmonary disorders. Influenza and SARS-CoV-2 are good examples of how the effective airborne transmission via droplets and aerosols enables rapid viral spread, that ultimately lead to seasonal epidemic or pandemic outbreaks. These together with a number of emerging viral disease urges the development of vaccine alternatives where IgY immnunotherapies could be included. Moreover oral passive neutralization of bacteria causing dental caries or even chronic gastric inflamation leading to cancer has been sucessfully shown with IgY and will be presented herein. Finally, the robustness of IgY to neutralize lethal toxins and venoms will also be covered. © Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2021. All rights reserved.