47D11 is a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds and neutralizes the spike proteins of the current corona virus. The substance is directed against a certain epitope in the core structure of the receptor binding areas of the spikes. Epitopes are sections of an antigen that can trigger a specific immune response. So far, it has been shown in vitro that the antibody is capable of successfully preventing the infection of cell cultures. 47D11 could also be helpful in the development of new test methods for antigen detection in laboratory diagnostics.
It is still only a matter of laboratory experiments. So far, no animal or human inspection has been carried out. The study was published in the journal “Nature” on Monday. More research is needed to determine whether the results can be confirmed in a clinical setting. The exact mechanism of action also needs to be researched further.
First, it can be said that this is the first report of a human monoclonal antibody that neutralizes Sars-CoV-2 and thus prevents cell entry and replication. 47D11 not only binds to Sars-CoV-2, but also to the structurally related virus Sars-CoV-1 – cross-neutral neutralization is possible. Neutralizing antibodies can change the course of infection in the infected host and support virus clearance or protect an uninfected host that is exposed to the virus. Therefore, the scientists assume that the antibody can be used alone or in combination with other drugs against Covid-19.
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