How antibodies target coronavirus
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People who have recovered from mild coronavirus infections produce antibodies that target three different parts of the virus’s spike protein that it uses to latch on to human cells
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SARS-CoV-2 virus

Spike protein:
Between 25 and 40 spikes on surface of virus. Each spike consists of three proteins, forming flower-like shape

Stem anchors proteins to virus

Replication: Spike binds to ACE2 receptors on host cell. Viral genetic code hijacks cell, reprogramming it to become virus factory

Human cell
Virus genome

Receptor-binding domain: Located on tip of spike protein. RBD is portion of spike that attaches directly to ACE2 receptor. Antibodies specifically targeting RBD can protect against virus

ACE2* receptor

Virus

N-terminal domain of spike protein

Receptor-binding domain

1. Stem: Is antiviral target for S2 subunit antibodies

2. Immunoglobulin G: “Workhorse” antibody of human immune system.
IgG specifically binds to RBD

3. Monoclonal antibodies: Bind to N-terminal domain

*angiotensin-converting enzyme 2

Antibodies
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Sources: National Institutes of Health, Cell Press, Science Museum Group © GRAPHIC NEWS