Antibodies from llamas could help in fight against COVID-19

[JudyM]

This is preliminary, but the method is interesting for folks following the science... “ The paper ... is peer-reviewed but undergoing final formatting.”

Researchers linked two copies of a special kind of antibody produced by llamas to create a new antibody that binds tightly to a key protein on the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. This protein, called the spike protein, allows the virus to break into host cells. Initial tests indicate that the antibody blocks viruses that display this spike protein from infecting cells in culture. "This is one of the first antibodies known to neutralize SARS-CoV-2," said Jason McLellan, associate professor of molecular biosciences at UT Austin and co-senior author, referring to the virus that causes COVID-19.
...
"Vaccines have to be given a month or two before infection to provide protection," McLellan said. "With antibody therapies, you're directly giving somebody the protective antibodies and so, immediately after treatment, they should be protected. The antibodies could also be used to treat somebody who is already sick to lessen the severity of the disease."
...
When llamas' immune systems detect foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses, these animals (and other camelids such as alpacas) produce two types of antibodies: one that is similar to human antibodies and another that's only about a quarter of the size. These smaller ones, called single-domain antibodies or nanobodies, can be nebulized and used in an inhaler.

"That makes them potentially really interesting as a drug for a respiratory pathogen because you're delivering it right to the site of infection," said Daniel Wrapp, a graduate student in McLellan's lab and co-first author of the paper.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/05/200501184301.htm

(emphasis mine)

Innovative! This would be a remarkable advance if it’s effective in humans.

[woodsprite]

1. Yes, but side effects inclue spitting and kicking :)

[ProfessorGAC]

3. I'll Risk It!

As long as the spitting doesn't infect somebody else, no harm done!
The kicking thing will still require social distancing though. 3 feet not 6. My legs aren't 6 feet long!

[IcyPeas]

2. Don't tell donald...

He will run and buy every llama he can find, and then sell them to the highest bidders.