Development of neutralizing monoclonal antibodics against the 'spike' protein of SARS-CoV-2

discovery - We engineer extracellular vesicles (eEVs) as antigen carriers to encompass complex membrane proteins in their correct conformation. Conformational authenticity of functional antigenic domains determines the quality of immune responses. Thus, when injected into animals such eEVs can give rise to functional antibodies with superb affinity and avidity. Here, we propose to use eEVs for the systematic generation of a panel of neutralizing antibodies directed against the surface 'spike' glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2, which is considered central to the entry and fusion of this virus with all its target cells. Using the eEV approach, we also developed a virus-free platform technology that will support the functional screening of SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies. With this novel assay we will functionally validate the different classes of antibodies obtained from immunizations with eEVs, screen for distinct neutralizing antibodies, characterize them, and humanize and express the most promising clinical candidate in CHO cells for its further preclinical evaluation with a drug target profile to prevent or curb COVID-19 infection.