In a recent paper published in Science Immunology, researchers described a mouse model used to create a recombinant antibody based on VH1-2 heavy chain (HC) and Vκ1-33 light chain (LC) that broadly neutralized all variants of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, including the newly emerging "omicron" strain subviant, BA.5. The study reports a broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibody developed using a humanized mouse model carrying separate segments of VH1-2 heavy chain (HC) and Vκ1-33 light chain (LC). The SP1-77 antibody differs from previous monoclonal antibodies in the mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 inhibition as well as in the epitope (specific part of the antigen to which the antibody binds) of RBD (receptor-binding domain, the protein structure responsible for COVID-19 penetration into the body - ed.) binding. The unconventional neutralization mechanism demonstrated by SP1-77 may also affect vaccination strategies against recently emerged SARS-CoV-2 variants. Overall, this study provided a successful prototype for the use of humanized mouse models carrying VH and Vκ segments to generate a variety of antibodies and demonstrated the potential of using mouse models to develop humanized antibodies against various pathogens.
Scientists announce creation of powerful new antibody that neutralizes all variants of SARS-CoV-2






