Friday, July 11, 2025
spot_img

New vulnerability in virus found

Date:

Share post:

spot_imgspot_img

Scientists have uncovered a new vulnerability in the spike protein of the novel coronavirus, which enables the virus to enter host cells, an advance that may lead to potential treatment pathways against COVID-19.
The researchers, including those from Northwestern University in the US, noted that the spike protein contains the virus’ binding site, which adheres to host cells and enables it to enter and infect the body.
In the study, published in the journal ACS Nano, they used simulations of this protein at ultrasmall scales, in the order of nanometres, and discovered a positively charged site — known as the polybasic cleavage site — located 10 nanometers from the actual binding site on the spike protein.
They said this positively charged site allows strong bonding between the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2’s spike protein and the negatively charged human-cell receptors.
Leveraging this discovery, the scientists then designed a negatively charged molecule to bind to the positively charged cleavage site.
They said blocking this site inhibits the virus from bonding to the host cell. (PTI)

spot_imgspot_img

Related articles

22 Maoists, including eight females, surrender in Chhattisgarh

Raipur, July 11: In a significant development in Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district, 22 Maoists laid down their arms on...

BJP looting land, forest, water: Rahul Gandhi at ‘save Constitution’ rally in Odisha

Bhubaneswar, July 11: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday targeted the BJP, alleging that the ruling party has...

Centre plans Rs 1,345 crore subsidy scheme to boost production of Rare Earth magnets

New Delhi, July 11: The Indian government has drawn up a scheme to offer subsidies to the tune...

We missed no targets in Pak, not even a glass pane broken in India: NSA Doval on Op Sindoor

New Delhi, July 11: National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Friday addressed the convocation ceremony at IIT...