Recombinant ACE2-Ig Fusion Protein Neutralizes SARS-CoV-2

Abstract

A novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent for the COVID-19 pandemic, and needs for effective antiviral drugs have been demanded. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) has been shown to be a cellular receptor for SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. For the therapeutic validation of ACE2, a recombinant protein consisting of the ACE2 extracellular domain fused to the IgG1 Fc domain (ACE2-Ig) was generated. ACE2-Ig exhibits proper pharmacological properties and binds with a high affinity to SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain. Further, it neutralizes virus with SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins. Taken overall, these data suggest that ACE2-Ig has substantial anti-SARS-CoV-2 properties and warrant further study concerning its potential applications for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2. © 2022 Journal of Bacteriology and Virology.