June 21st 2023

Published in PNAS: A broad-spectrum macrocyclic peptide inhibitor of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein

Published in PNAS: A broad-spectrum macrocyclic peptide inhibitor of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein

The CARE partner Utrecht University, in collaboration with other research groups, has developed a spike-targeting macrocyclic peptide that demonstrated inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Structural, functional and bioinformatic analysis revealed the details of a conserved quaternary binding site. Consistent with this, the cyclic peptide was able to neutralise pseudoviruses displaying the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern as well as related sarbecoviruses.

This broadly neutralising peptide represents a pivotal first step towards development of spike-targeting molecules which can safeguard against emerging variants and future pandemics.

To learn more, click here: A broad-spectrum macrocyclic peptide inhibitor of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein or access the preprint.