Scientists at Karolinska University in Sweden have found a small neutralizing antibody (nanobody) that can block the entry of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus into human cells. Experts believe that it can be used as a protective agent against infection with the virus, preventing the severe development of COVID-19. This is reported in an article published in the journal Nature Communications.
During the study, specialists injected the S-protein of the coronavirus into alpaca. After 60 days, a strong immune response against the S-protein (spike protein) was observed in the blood samples of the animals. Then the scientists isolated and cloned neutralizing antibodies, after which they determined their structure to further evaluate the effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2. It turned out that the Ty1 antibody effectively neutralizes the virus by attaching to that part of the spike protein that binds to the ACE2 receptor.
Nanobodies have several advantages over conventional antibodies. They are less than one-tenth the size of conventional antibodies and are generally easier to manufacture on a large scale at lower cost.
Scientists are now embarking on preclinical studies in animals to study the neutralizing activity and therapeutic potential of Ty1 in an animal model.
