Corona Virus Spike Protein Binding Compounds

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes novel protein binding compounds, such as single-domain antibodies (VHHs or nanobodies) and similar molecules, that specifically target the spike (S) protein of coronaviruses—including SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. These compounds are designed to bind to certain regions (epitopes) on the spike protein, inducing or stabilizing its three-dimensional conformation in such a way that the virus’s ability to enter and infect host cells is significantly reduced or inhibited. The invention covers the use of these compounds for prevention, treatment, diagnosis, and patient stratification of coronavirus infections, and details various delivery forms, including inhalers and nebulizers for direct respiratory administration.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Preventing or treating infections caused by coronaviruses, especially COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2.
• Prophylactic use in high-risk or immunocompromised individuals who may not respond well to vaccines.
• Emergency or acute post-exposure therapy to rapidly neutralize the virus before or after known contact.
• Diagnostic assays to detect current coronavirus infections using the specific binding compounds as reagents.
• Stratification of patients for appropriate therapeutic interventions based on detection of viral proteins.
• Development of inhalable formulations (nebulizers/inhalers) for direct delivery into the lungs.
• Biotechnological production of compounds in cost-effective systems for large-scale use.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Directly neutralizes the virus by blocking or irreversibly inactivating the spike protein, preventing cell entry.
• Can be used both as a preventative (prophylactic) and as a therapeutic for those already infected.
• Demonstrated efficacy against a range of virus variants, reducing risk of viral escape/resistance.
• Engineered versions (multivalent or biparatopic compounds) provide enhanced potency and breadth.
• Production based on single-domain antibodies (VHHs) allows for rapid, scalable, and affordable manufacturing (including in bacteria or yeast).
• Smaller size and stability of VHHs enable formulation as aerosols for inhalation, targeting the site of infection (lungs) efficiently.
• Therapies can be effective even in patients where vaccines are unsuitable due to compromised immunity.
• Potential for use in combination therapies for synergistic effects and reduced resistance.
• Regular diagnostic/monitoring applications due to the high specificity of the binding compounds to viral proteins.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention pertains to protein binding compounds, such as antibodies and antibody like compounds, specifically targeting epitopes of the Corona virus spike (S) protein which were found to stabilize a three-dimensional conformation of the protein which reduces or inhibits the viral mechanisms necessary for host cell entry. The invention provides the protein binding compounds alone and in combination and multispecific constructs, as well as their use in the prevention, treatment, patient stratification and diagnosis of viral infections caused by a corona virus such as severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS CoV2).