Llamas could hold COVID-19 remedy

Researchers see potential in nanobodies

A coronavirus treatment made from llama antibodies is one of the most effective ever tested, according to Public Health England (PHE).

Scientists have found that the nanobodies — a smaller, simple form of antibody generated by llamas and camels — can effectively target the virus that causes COVID-19.

They were able to generate the nanobodies by injecting a portion of the spike protein into a llama called Fifi at the University of Reading.

The animal did not get sick but its immune system went to work to protect itself against the virus.

Researchers extracted the nanobodies via blood samples and lab tests found that the treatment dramatically reduced the severity of the disease in infected hamsters.

The study found that three nanobody chains were able to neutralize both the original variants of the COVID-19 virus and the alpha variant. A fourth chain was able to neutralize the beta variant which scientists had feared may be able to avoid antibodies made via vaccination.

Human antibodies have been used for serious cases during the pandemic, but usually need to be injected in hospital.

However, this treatment can be administered via a nasal spray.

Miles Carroll, deputy director of the National Infection Service at PHE, said: “These are among the most effective SARS-COV-2 neutralizing agents we have ever tested at PHE.

“We believe the unique structure and strength of the nanobodies contribute to their significant potential for both the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 and look forward to working collaboratively to progress this work into clinical studies.”

Ray Owens, of the Rosalind Franklin Institute in Oxfordshire,

THEY ARE CHEAPER TO PRODUCE AND CAN BE DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO THE AIRWAYS.

said: “Nanobodies have a number of advantages over human antibodies.

“They are cheaper to produce and can be delivered directly to the airways through a nebulizer or nasal spray, so can be self-administered at home rather than needing an injection.”

The research, which was produced in association with Oxford University, appears in the journal Nature Communication.