A monoclonal antibody called SC27 has shown promising results in neutralizing multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2, as well as related viruses in animals. This antibody was identified, developed, and provisionally patented by a team of researchers led by Greg Ippolito, Ph.D., who recently joined Texas Biomedical Research Institute from the University of Texas at Austin. SC27 targets multiple parts of the virus’s spike protein, including sections that are not mutating as frequently, making it less likely for the virus to escape the treatment. The antibody blocks the ACE2 binding site used by the virus to infect cells and also binds to a hidden site on the spike protein that is largely unchanged between variants.
In testing, SC27 was effective against 12 viruses, including the original SARS-CoV-2, currently circulating variants, SARS-1, and other coronaviruses found in animals. The antibody protected mice against the tested variants in a laboratory setting. This makes SC27 broader and more effective than other monoclonal antibodies reported in scientific literature and former FDA-approved cocktails. While promising, further testing is needed in human clinical trials to confirm its efficacy and safety. The team is seeking collaborations with industry partners to advance the development of SC27 as a potential treatment option.
SC27 was found in individuals who received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, which is a significant discovery. Previously, this type of antibody was only detected following natural infection with SARS-1. These “class 1/4” antibodies attach to two distinct areas of the spike protein, making them more robust and effective. The ability of vaccines to prompt the generation of these antibodies is encouraging for future vaccine development, as it provides a clear metric for measuring the effectiveness of vaccines in generating protective antibodies. This finding could potentially lead to the development of vaccines that trigger the production of these more effective antibodies.
The potential of SC27 as a treatment option is significant, especially for immunocompromised patients who may not be able to receive vaccines. The antibody could also serve as an emergency treatment during future outbreaks of new variants or coronaviruses. Further steps in developing SC27 would involve preclinical studies in larger animal models, including nonhuman primates, to evaluate its efficacy and safety before moving to human clinical trials. The broad recognition of variants and related viruses by SC27 makes it a promising candidate for a more effective and broader treatment against current and future COVID variants.
Overall, the discovery of SC27 and its ability to effectively neutralize multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2 and related viruses is a significant advancement in the fight against COVID-19. The research team’s findings highlight the potential of this monoclonal antibody as a broader and more effective treatment option, offering hope for better outcomes in managing the evolving landscape of COVID variants. Collaboration with industry partners and further clinical trials will be crucial in advancing the development of SC27 as a potential treatment for COVID-19 and other future coronaviruses.
