The Glycan Shield of the SARS-Cov-2 Spike; Antigenicity and Function

National Institute Of Allergy And Infectious Diseases

Investigators

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Abstract

We have produced various versions of a recombinant SARS-CoV-2 Spike glycoproteins that differ in their glycan content. We then characterized the way in which these differentially glycosylated forms of the spike interact with ACE2, and various lectin receptors (e.g L-SIGN, DC-SIGN). In addition, we are compared the reactivity of these spikes with sera from convalescent Covid-19+ subjects. Regarding pre-existing cross-reactive anti spike antibody responses, we identified cross reactive antibody responses in serum samples derived from individuals in the U.S, Thailand, and Uganda. The frequency and pattern of these responses differed among these three cohorts. These findings may help explain differences in the way the pandemic is evolving in these three countries.