Neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2: current understanding, challenge and perspective

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Virology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 presents a significant global health challenge.
• Neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) have emerged as promising therapeutics for COVID-19.
• Several NAb-based drugs have received emergency use authorization for treating COVID-19.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of SARS-CoV-2 specific and cross-reactive NAbs.
• To discuss the structures, functions, and neutralization mechanisms of these NAbs.
• To highlight challenges in NAb-based therapeutic development.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of scientific literature on SARS-CoV-2 NAbs.
• Analysis of NAb recognition of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.
• Examination of cross-reactivity with other coronaviruses.

Main Results:

• Detailed characterization of various SARS-CoV-2 NAbs, including their binding to the spike protein.
• Understanding of neutralization mechanisms employed by different NAbs.
• Identification of potential challenges like antibody-dependent enhancement and viral escape mutations.

Conclusions:

• NAbs are crucial for COVID-19 treatment, targeting the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.
• Further research is needed to overcome challenges and optimize NAb therapeutics.
• Developing effective antibody interventions is vital to mitigate the global impact of COVID-19.