In an important development, researchers at the Scripps Research Institute in the US have found antibodies that trigger protection against many SARS-CoV2 variants, including the highly contagious Omicron form.

According to a study published in Science Translational Medicine, the researchers administered the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein twice to rhesus macaques, a kind of old world monkey to immunize them and produce antibodies. In contrast to previous vaccines, the study revealed that the macaques had a robust neutralizing antibody response against the virus, including Omicron. 

The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is the outer element of the virus that allows it to pierce and infect host cells. Most of the mRNA vaccines against Covid-19 that are currently being given to people in various nations operate on the same principles.

On further analysis, the scientists discovered that the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor binding site is a conserved area on the edge of the place where the spike protein interacts to host cells.

Experts also noted that this region has been targeted by human antibodies till date to a very less extend, and they offered other suggestions for ways to encourage our immune system to recognize this specific area of the virus. The discovery, according to scientists, may help in the creation of a pan-coronavirus vaccine. (ETHealthWorld, August 12, 2022)