The llama antibodies, known as 'nanobodies,' are 'among the most effective SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing agents we have ever tested,' said U.K. health officials.
The nanobodies—a smaller, simple form of antibody produced by the immune systems of llamas and camels—significantly reduced signs of the disease in the infected hamsters.
The scientists then took a blood sample from the llama, extracting four nanobody chains that they then used in their experiments. Nanobodies"are among the most effective SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing agents we have ever tested," the agency said. While the latest research is still at an early stage, researchers say it could pave the way for the development of new effective treatments against COVID-19.
"They are cheaper to produce and can be delivered directly to the airways through a nebuliser or nasal spray, so can be self-administered at home rather than needing an injection. This could have benefits in terms of ease of use by patients but it also gets the treatment directly to the site of infection in the respiratory tract."
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