• UGI USER
  • Sep 09, 2024
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Scientists Discover ‘Variant-Proof’ Sars-CoV-2 Antibody

Why in the news?

A newly discovered antibody, SC27, shows potential to neutralise multiple Sars-CoV-2 variants and related viruses, offering hope for future treatments and vaccines against coronaviruses.

About the Origin of SC27:

  • SC27 originated from a person with “hybrid immunity” (vaccinated and recovered from a breakthrough infection).
  • Scientists believe this unique immune experience helped fine-tune their immune response, leading to the development of this broad-spectrum antibody.

Potential for Future Pandemic Preparedness:

  • In lab tests, SC27 neutralised major Sars-CoV-2 variants, the 2003 Sars virus, and other coronaviruses found in bats and pangolins.
  • This discovery offers hope for new antibody treatments and improved vaccines to better prepare against future coronavirus outbreaks.

About SARS-CoV-2:

SARS-CoV-2: First reported on December 31, 2019, in China.

Variants:

  • Alpha (B.1.1.7): First detected in the UK.
  • Beta (B.1.351): Emerged in South Africa.
  • Gamma (P.1): Originated in Brazil.
  • Delta (B.1.617.2): First found in India.
  • Omicron (BA.1.1.529): Identified in late 2021.
  • JN.1: A subvariant of Omicron.

What is Antibody (Immunoglobulin)?

  • Antibody (Immunoglobulin): A protective protein produced by the immune system.
  • Purpose: Generated in response to the presence of antigens (foreign substances).
  • Antigens: Can include disease-causing organisms and toxic materials.
  • Function: Antibodies recognize, bind to, and neutralise antigens, helping to remove them from the body.