Researchers from Beijing Institute of Microbiology and epidemiology developed a new strain of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, capable of infecting mice, which is essential for developing effective vaccines. Preliminary results of the work of scientists published in the Preprint on the bioRxiv site.
Common types of rodents are not susceptible to most types of known human coronaviruses. Therefore, several groups of microbiologists withdrew earlier laboratory mice with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 – ACE2 (for him in the human body “clings” SARS-CoV-2 – approx. “RG”), which were exposed to a new type of coronavirus. However, disease in these animals proceeded in a weak form, which is not allowed to reach exponential results. In addition, the creation and maintenance of such rodents is costly, which complicates vaccine development.
This prompted Chinese scientists to develop an adapted strain, designated MASCp6. The variation of the virus has demonstrated high dynamics of infection and reproduction in the lungs and trachea, causing lesions and inflammatory reactions similar to those seen in patients with COVID-19.
the Results showed equal levels of viral RNA in young and adult individuals. The highest viral load recorded in the lungs, respiratory tract. The strain also caused damage in heart and liver. MASCp6 showed sustained protein expression and high survival in the body, explained Beijing microbiologists.
Next, the researchers were able to conduct research in a living organism (in vivo method – approx. “RG”) of the so-called subunit vaccine. It consists of chemical components, removed from the structure of the virus. The drug caused the production of potent antibodies and provided complete protection from infection MASCp6, viral RNA in the lungs and the trachea was completely absent.
the Authors expressed confidence that the obtained variant of the vaccine has a high potential to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
earlier, scientists from several Chinese universities called the main way of the spread of a new type of coronavirus. In their opinion, most cases of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 occurred in contacts of people in the room and transport.
