Collection of Monoclonal Antibodies Targeting SARS-CoV-2 Proteins

Marina Pribanić Matešić1, Paola Kučan Brlić1, Tihana Lenac Roviš1

  • 1Center for Proteomics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Braće Branchetta 20, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia.

Viruses
|February 26, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Researchers developed over 40 new monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting various SARS-CoV-2 proteins. These specific molecular tools aid in understanding viral pathogenesis and designing new COVID-19 therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Immunology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic necessitates advanced research tools for understanding SARS-CoV-2.
  • High-quality molecular tools, such as monoclonal antibodies, are crucial for scientific advancement.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop and characterize a novel collection of monoclonal antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 proteins.
  • To provide specific reagents for comprehensive analysis of the SARS-CoV-2 proteome.

Main Methods:

  • Expression and purification of recombinant SARS-CoV-2 proteins for use as immunogens.
  • Development of hybridomas and screening of monoclonal antibody (mAb) clones.
  • Testing mAb binding to recombinant proteins and infected cells using flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and Western blot.

Main Results:

  • Generation of over 40 new monoclonal antibodies against SARS-CoV-2.
  • mAbs were produced against structural proteins (Spike, Nucleocapsid) and non-structural proteins (nsp1, nsp7-10, nsp16) and accessory factors (ORF3a, ORF9b).
  • The developed mAbs demonstrated high specificity and applicability in various detection methods.

Conclusions:

  • The new collection of monoclonal antibodies offers valuable tools for SARS-CoV-2 research.
  • These antibodies will facilitate a deeper understanding of viral pathogenesis.
  • The mAbs can aid in the design and development of therapeutic strategies against COVID-19.

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