What the research means for the fight against Covid-19

Q

Does it work?

A

The clinical trials have, so far, been successful. Researchers have shown that antibodies produced against sections of a genetic material – called “spike proteins” and usually found on the surface of the coronavirus after infection – are able to kill the virus when tested in the laboratory. They want the human body to recognise and develop antibodies to the protein that would stop the virus from entering human cells. Trials suggest that not only is this happening but also that the body is developing a crucial T-cell response as well, which is deemed vital in the defence against Covid-19.

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When will it be available?

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up to two billion doses of a coronavirus vaccine in September, if ongoing trials continue to prove successful. It has already started to manufacture the vaccine. In May, Alok Sharma, the Business Secretary, said Britain would be the first to get the

Q

What is the next step?

A

As the level of coronavirus in the UK subsided, scientists began testing the drug in hospitals. They have also enrolled 5,000 volunteers in Brazil and others in South Africa. The developers are expected to report their Phase I study results – which would show whether it is safe and whether it induces an immune response – within the next fortnight.