The name of the new coronavirus infection (COVID-19) comes from the Latin word corona (corona). If you look at the Corona 19 virus in the foreground, the sharp protrusion-shaped spike protein is attached to the nucleus, because this shape resembles a corona.
The international scientific journal Science published this week’s cover of a coronavirus with spike proteins attached. In addition to the proteins attached to the coronavirus, the colorful spike proteins surrounding it are visible.
The COVID-19 virus, like other viruses, continues to mutate. As various mutations occur in the spike protein that binds to the virus, the ability to evade previously developed vaccines or therapies is becoming stronger. The various types of spike proteins contained on the label indicate the continuing evolution of the coronavirus.
Science published a graphic article on the 13th (local time) covering scientists’ research on COVID-19 published through the summer of 2022. According to previous studies, cells attacked by COVID-19 release interferon, an immune protein that increases virus resistance. This protein also prevents the virus from reproducing in cells or reassembling itself into new viral particles.
The “B cells” of the immune system in our body secrete antibodies that fight viral proteins. The antibodies prevent the spread of viral particles. When the spike protein is mutated, it bypasses the antibody and spreads throughout the body.
Research into how the COVID-19 virus destroys our body’s immune system is still ongoing. The functions of our body that can increase immunity have not yet been confirmed.
“Scientists don’t know all about coronavirus tactics to evade immune system defenses, but we could learn a lot more about the virus as the pandemic continues,” Science said.
