Breakthroughs in SARS-CoV-2-monoclonal antibodies development

Abstract

In December 2019, cases of unknown pneumonia-like disease connected to food markets were reported in China. The causative agent was identified as a Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and the disease which spread all over the world, was named COVID-19. This pandemic has negatively affected quality of life and economy worldwide, thus motivating thoughtful search for treatment and prevention strategies. Efforts have been made in drug repositioning and vaccine development as well as development of monoclonal antibodies. Monoclonal antibodies provide a long-lasting protective immunity against the pathogens, and have been at the forefront line in the therapy of some viral diseases. This study aimed to review the advances in SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) development. Most of the developed SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal antibodies including; B38, CR3022, 47D11, and H4, have targeted the spike protein of the virus to prevent its interaction with the host cell ACE-2 receptor. However, others such as Tocilizumab prevent the inflammation caused by the cytokine storm.