Study of the molecules of SARS-CoV-2 showed that the ability of the virus to escape from immunity has one specific weakness.
During special studies, the researchers found a “weak spot” in the shell of the virus, the pathogen COVID-19. The results of the researches of the experts of English the University of Southampton was published on the website phys.org.
In the structure of SARS-CoV-2, as in other coronaviruses, there is a layer of S-proteins, which serve to associate with the cells of the body of the carrier and form the “crown”, gave its name to the topological group of viruses. These proteins themselves surrounded by small carbohydrate molecules – glycans. Thanks to these molecules, which contain malespecific the bio-information, the immune system fails to recognize the virus.
“Thanks to the carbohydrates viruses are like a wolf in sheep’s clothing, however, we learned that the coronavirus is able not as good as others”, explained one of the experts who participated in the study, Professor Max Crispin.
Scientists the English universities found that the mechanism of deception immunity in SARS-CoV-2 is not perfect, because of the available carbohydrate in the shell gaps. This feature makes the coronavirus more vulnerable compared to those viruses, a layer of carbohydrates on the surface which has no cracks. For example, protection of the pathogen for new infections to be weaker than protection HIV.
Found gaps in the shell allow to influence the protein molecule with the help of artificially created antibodies, not allowing her to enter into cooperation with the cells of the body.
The scientists ‘ discovery could be an important step in the development of specific means of dealing with SARS-CoV-2, causing coronavirus infection.