Scientists identify antibodies that can block Omicron COVID variant

WASHINGTON: DEC. 30 – Scientists have identified antibodies that neutralize Omicron and other variants of coronavirus by targeting areas that remain essentially unchanged as the virus mutates.

The research, published in the journal Nature, may help design vaccines and antibody treatments that will be effective against not only Omicron but other variants that may emerge in the future.

“This finding tells us that by focusing on antibodies that target these highly conserved sites on the spike protein, there is a way to overcome the virus’ continual evolution,” said David Veesler, an associate professor at the University of Washington School of Medicine in the US.