A synthetic nanobody targeting RBD protects hamsters from SARS-CoV-2 infection.

ABSTRACT: SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19¹, features a receptor-binding domain (RBD) for binding to the host cell ACE2 protein^1-6. Neutralizing antibodies that block RBD-ACE2 interaction are candidates for the development of targeted therapeutics^7-17. Llama-derived single-domain antibodies (nanobodies, ~15 kDa) offer advantages in bioavailability, amenability, and production and storage owing to their small sizes and high stability. Here, we report the rapid selection of 99 synthetic nanobodies (sybodies) against RBD by in vitro selection using three libraries. The best sybody, MR3 binds to RBD with high affinity (K_D = 1.0 nM) and displays high neutralization activity against SARS-CoV-2 pseudoviruses (IC₅₀ = 0.42 μg mL^-1).

SUBMITTER: Li T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8324831 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature