Infection of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 can be blocked by a human monoclonal antibody

Vaccines and targeted therapeutics for treatment of the respiratory disease COVID-19, caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, are currently lacking. Based on the results of this study, it was reported for the first time that a human monoclonal antibody, 47D11, can neutralize SARS-CoV-2 in cell culture. This cross-neutralizing antibody targets a communal epitope on the virus via a mechanism that is independent of receptor-binding inhibition. It will be useful for development of antigen detection tests and serological assays targeting SARS-CoV-2. Neutralizing antibodies can alter the course of infection in the infected host supporting virus clearance or protect an uninfected host that is exposed to the virus. Hence, this antibody may offer potential for prevention and/or treatment of COVID-19. The antibody binding to cell surface spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2 was measured by immunofluoresence microscopy using a confocal microscope from Leica Microsystems. Refer to the publication for more details.