Nanobodies: an unexplored opportunity to combat COVID-19
Sayeh Ezzikouri1,2, Jalal Nourlil3, Kyoko Tsukiyama-Kohara2
1Virology Unit, Viral Hepatitis Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco.
Abstract:
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious disease caused by severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This virus is capable of human-to-human transmission, and is spreading rapidly round the globe, with markedly high fatality rates. Unfortunately, there are neither vaccines nor specific therapies available to combat it, and the developments of such approaches depend on pursuing multiple avenues in biomedical science. Accordingly, in this paper we highlight one such avenue-nanobodies-for potential utility in therapeutic and diagnostic interventions to combat COVID-19.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
Insights
Nanobodies offer a promising therapeutic and diagnostic approach for combating Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Further research into nanobodies is crucial for developing effective interventions against SARS-CoV-2.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Science
- Infectious Diseases
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a global pandemic with high fatality rates.
- Current therapeutic and vaccine options for COVID-19 are limited, necessitating novel intervention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of nanobodies as a therapeutic and diagnostic tool against COVID-19.
- To highlight nanobodies as a promising avenue in biomedical research for combating SARS-CoV-2.
Main Methods:
- Review of current research on nanobodies.
- Analysis of nanobody characteristics relevant to SARS-CoV-2.
- Exploration of potential therapeutic and diagnostic applications.
Main Results:
- Nanobodies demonstrate potential for both therapeutic and diagnostic applications in COVID-19.
- Their small size and stability offer advantages for targeting SARS-CoV-2.
- Nanobodies can be engineered for various functions, including neutralization and detection.
Conclusions:
- Nanobodies represent a viable and promising strategy for developing new interventions against COVID-19.
- Further investigation into nanobody-based therapies and diagnostics is warranted.
- This approach could significantly contribute to managing the COVID-19 pandemic.
