Vaccine candidate based on the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, its most protruding segment, and its purpose is to introduce antibodies that interfere with the entry of the pathogen into cells; mechanism that is fundamental in all existing formulations of its kind to generate protection.
The selection of the yeast Pichia pastoris as an expression system was due to the experience of the CIGB in the use of the technological platform, which is cheaper in relation to others and, therefore, with the possibility of an advantage in terms of production costs.
As RBD is a covalently associated glycoprotein, the saccharides of Pichia pastoris provide it with an immunopotentiating effect that favors immunogenicity, achieving the ability of the protein to bind to the hepatitis B antigen without the need for additional chemical reactions and form a mixed nanoparticle, administered nasal.
It was designed by means of protein engineering using structural bioinformatics computational methods aimed at increasing its similarity to the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
The protein created stands out for its versatility, as it can be used as an immunogen alone (Abdala) and in the form of a hybrid nanoparticle, which makes it unique with respect to other purposes of a similar nature.
