Nanobodies are smaller versions of antibodies, molecules that attach to viruses and other
Mini-antibodies, or VHHs, are directed against the S-proteincoronavirus, which is involved in the attachment of the virus to receptors on the surface of the infected cell and its subsequent penetration inside. Nanobodies block the receptor that binds the coronavirus domain, preventing infection.
Scientists from the Max Institute for Biophysical ChemistryPlanck (MPI) in Göttingen, together with colleagues from the University Medical Center Göttingen, have developed mini-antibodies that combine all the properties to fight COVID-19.
For the first time, they combine stability and effectiveness against the virus and its strains: alpha, beta, gamma and delta.
Dirk Gerlich, MPI Director of Biophysical Chemistry
Gerlich emphasizes that new nanobodiescan withstand temperatures up to 95 ° C without losing their functions, so they can remain active in the body for a long time. In addition, heat-resistant nanobodies are easier to manufacture, handle, and store.
Also, the nanobodies developed by the team bind to the spike protein 1,000 times stronger than analogues.
Researchers have also constructed various structures from nanobodies. For example, triads consisting of several molecules - three identical nanobodies connected to each other.
The triad corresponds to the symmetry of the threereceptor-binding domains of the S-protein, which cannot be released, which increases the efficiency of neutralizing the virus by 30 thousand times compared to single bodies. In addition, in this case, the release of nanobodies from the body is slowed down, which contributes to a longer therapeutic effect.
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