Scientists have created a three-dimensional model of the coronavirus protein. It will help find a cure

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have created a three-dimensional model of the coronavirus protein that will help find a cure for the disease. The results of the study are published in the journal Nature.

Scientists have studied the biological mechanism of the spread of coronavirus infection, creating a detailed 3D model. A detailed analysis of the structure of the virus showed that, thanks to special spikes, SARS-CoV-2 penetrates the cell about four times faster than the other SARS coronavirus during an outbreak of SARS. Particles of the virus penetrate through the nose and mouth and are highly likely to become fixed in the upper respiratory tract.

Using x-ray crystallography, scientists were able to create a three-dimensional map of the coronavirus protein and the cellular protein ACE-2. With the help of ACE-2, the infection is able to penetrate the human body and begin to multiply. According to experts, in comparison with the virus that caused the outbreak of disease in 2002-2003, coronavirus has new variants of communication with the human cell, which allows it to spread rapidly among people.

A three-dimensional model of the virus will help scientists in finding potential drugs that neutralize SARS-CoV-2 until amplification of replication and further spread of infection from one person to another occurs. “The future antibody-based drug will be able to contact the virus particles faster and stronger than the ACE-2 receptor, which will make it a potential cure for coronavirus,” said Dr. Fang Li, one of the study participants.