In Finland, found the “Achilles heel of the coronavirus”

Finnish virologists have created a nasal spray that prevents CORONAVIRUS infection (SARS-CoV-2) from entering the human body. Currently, experts are trying to understand whether the remedy is effective in post-exposure prophylaxis. Virologist Anna Mäkelä has already registered a company for the possible commercial production of the spray, but when that might happen is not yet clear.

"Achilles heel of coronavirus"

The joint research work of the University of Helsinki and the University of Eastern Finland on the study of binding protein technology in the fight against covid was reported in the media as early as March 2021. Then Anna Mäkelä, a graduate student in the laboratory of Professor Kalle Saksela from the University of Helsinki, began looking for a protein molecule that could prevent the coronavirus from entering the human body, the Yle news portal clarifies. By the summer, out of 10 billion possible molecules, the one called TriSb92 was found, which “would hit right in the Achilles heel of the coronavirus.” This molecule, according to scientists, blocks SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins and protects a person from infection for several hours. To do this, it is enough to apply the substance containing the molecule to the nasal mucosa.

Explaining the principle of the spray, the researchers recall that viruses enter human cells with the help of spike-like spike proteins located on their surface. Coronaviruses have a weak point in these proteins. According to Anna Mäkelä, the TriSb92 molecule compresses or binds the protein's trident-like tip and prevents it from entering cells. Therefore, the virus that gets on the mucous membranes does not cause disease.

According to the researchers, TriSb92 protected laboratory mice from coronavirus for eight hours. Under similar conditions, all mice that did not receive a spray with a molecule became infected with covid.

Vaccine Supplement

Virologists emphasize that the new tool is not capable of replacing vaccination - although the spray can theoretically protect a person immediately after use, its duration is much shorter than that of the vaccine. However, the complex use of such drugs will help to avoid the tightening of "anticoid" restrictions. For example, if visitors to an establishment or event participants use a spray, then the risk of spreading coronavirus will be significantly reduced.