Potent Neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 by Hetero-Bivalent Alpaca Nanobodies Targeting the Spike Receptor-Binding Domain
Huan Ma, Weihong Zeng, Xiangzhi Meng, Xiaoxue Huang, Yunru Yang, Dan Zhao, Peigen Zhou, Xiaofang Wang, Changcheng Zhao, Yong Sun, Pei‐Hui Wang, Huichao Ou, Xiaowen Hu, Yan Xiang, Tengchuan Jin
Abstract
To date, SARS-CoV-2 has caused tremendous loss of human life and economic output worldwide. Although a few COVID-19 vaccines have been approved in several countries, the development of effective therapeutics, including SARS-CoV-2 targeting antibodies, remains critical. Due to their small size (13-15 kDa), high solubility, and stability, Nbs are particularly well suited for pulmonary delivery and more amenable to engineer into multivalent formats than the conventional antibody. Here, we report a series of new anti-SARS-CoV-2 Nbs isolated from immunized alpaca and two engineered hetero-bivalent Nbs. These potent neutralizing Nbs showed promise as potential therapeutics against COVID-19.