Therapeutic potential against delta, omicron, found in llama and camel antibodies

Researchers at the University of Seattle are hopeful that a nano-combination could be developed as a covid treatment that is effective against both current and future forms. The research is important for India as the second wave of infections in India was delta-driven, while the country has already reported more than two dozen cases of the Omicron type.

Michael P. Raut and Brian T. Chait and their colleagues at the Seattle Children’s Research Institute USA analyzed the repertoire of more than one hundred nanobodies based on their ability and ability to target different parts of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. selected.

Made by immunized llamas, the nanobodies were shown with high efficacy in laboratory tests to neutralize the original coronavirus and many of its variants, including Delta. The scientists said studies are underway to assess their potential against the new Omicron variant. The findings have been published in the peer-reviewed journal eLife.

“The way our nanobodies bind to the virus, we expect many to be effective, perhaps even against Omicron. We should get those results soon,” Raut said.

The scientists explained that the human antibody is a chunky formation of two protein chains. But llamas, camels and other species of the Camelidae family make antibodies consisting of only one protein.

To obtain the nanobodies, the researchers took blood samples from llamas that had received small doses of a coronavirus protein, similar to a vaccine. They then sequenced the DNA corresponding to the diverse nanobodies produced by the llamas’ immune systems and expressed these genes in bacteria to produce nanobodies in large quantities for laboratory analysis. Nanobodies showing desired properties were then selected and tested to identify those most capable of neutralizing the virus.

The scientists further described how the small size of the nanobodies allows them to reach hard-to-reach spots on the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which larger antibodies may be unable to reach. This allows researchers to combine nanobodies capable of killing different parts of the virus, reducing the chance of escape.

“One of the most surprising things we observed with the nanobodies is that they show extraordinary synergy. The combined effect is much greater than the sum of its parts,” Chait said.

In addition to being small and agile, nanobodies are also inexpensive for mass production in yeast or bacteria. Plus, the scientists said, they’re remarkably stable. The ability of these molecules to withstand high temperatures and long storage times means they could be developed as an accessible drug in a variety of settings around the world, the researchers said.

While scientists across the world are looking for therapeutic treatments, vaccines and oral drugs to tackle the emerging forms of coronavirus, India has reported 8,439 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours. The country’s cumulative COVID-19 vaccinations crossed 130 crore on Wednesday.