Hyperimmunized Chickens Produce Neutralizing Antibodies against SARS-CoV-2

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Virology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, necessitates diverse intervention strategies.
• Egg-extracted antibody therapies present a low-cost, scalable approach for protecting vulnerable populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of hyperimmunizing hens against SARS-CoV-2 S1 protein and its receptor binding domain (RBD).
• To determine if antibodies derived from egg yolks possess neutralizing capabilities against SARS-CoV-2.

Main Methods:

• Commercial laying hens were immunized with different doses of three recombinant SARS-CoV-2 S1 proteins.
• Sera and egg yolk samples were analyzed using ELISA and plaque-reduction neutralization assays.
• Antibody titers and neutralizing capacities were assessed at multiple time points post-immunization.

Main Results:

• Hyperimmunized hens produced antigen-specific and neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2.
• Antibody production levels correlated with the dose and type of S1 antigen used.
• Significant neutralizing activity was detected in antibodies purified from egg yolks.

Conclusions:

• Egg yolk antibodies from hyperimmunized hens neutralize SARS-CoV-2.
• This method offers a promising avenue for developing scalable immunoprophylaxis against COVID-19.
• Further research can explore the therapeutic potential of these egg-derived antibodies.