Husna, Amity University Kolkata
The SARS-CoV-2 virus can infect a cell by the interaction between the viral spike protein and the human cell surface protein ACE2. It binds with ACE2 using receptor-binding domains (RBDs) which are finger-like protrusions. Therefore, by blocking these receptors, the viral entry into human cells can be stopped and this can be done by using antibodies.
A recent study has revealed that mini-antibodies or nanobodies found in camels and llamas may work as promising tools against viruses due to their high stability and small size. However, obtaining them from the animals is a time-consuming process. Recent technological advances now make way for the rapid selection of synthetic nanobodies, called sybodies.
Recently, a group of researchers investigated various existing libraries to find the best sybodies that could block SARS-CoV-2 from infecting human cells. Sybody 23 turned out to be the most effective one. They found that it could bind with the viral receptors in both up and down positions perfectly and it blocks the areas where the viral spike protein would normally bind. An additional test revealed that sybody 23 can also neutralize a virus and it successfully disabled a modified virus in vitro. However, some additional tests will also be required to confirm whether the sybody can stop SARS-CoV-2 infection in the human body.
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Very well written.Informative and impactful.Language is simple and lucid yet crisp and clear.