Antibody that fights many variants identified in US

Washington, August 23

Researchers have identified an antibody that is highly protective at low doses against a wide range of variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus which causes Covid. The findings, posted as a pre-proof in the journal Immunity, could help develop new antibody-based therapies that are less likely to lose their potency as the virus mutates. The new antibody attaches to a part of the virus that differs little across the variants, meaning that it is unlikely for resistance to arise at this spot, the researchers said.

“Current antibodies may work against some but not all variants,” said Michael S Diamond, a professor at Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis, US. To find neutralising antibodies, the researchers immunised mice with a key part of the spike protein known as the receptor-binding domain (RBD) to reach the conclusion. — PTI

Lanka lauds India’s help to curb virus

Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister GL Peiris appreciated India’s support in fighting Covid and also $15 million offer to preserve and promote Buddhist cultural sites in the island nation. PTI