Can a Protein from the Covid-19 Virus Mislead the Immune System?
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Synopsis
In a groundbreaking study from Israel, researchers reveal how a protein from the SARS-CoV-2 virus can lead the immune system to mistakenly attack healthy cells, shedding light on severe Covid complications. This discovery may pave the way for innovative treatments and further understanding of immune responses in viral infections.
Key Takeaways
- The nucleocapsid protein from SARS-CoV-2 can mislead the immune system.
- This misidentification can lead to severe complications and tissue damage.
- Enoxaparin may be effective in blocking the harmful effects of NP.
- The study opens new avenues for managing immune responses in Covid-19.
- New variants like NB.1.8.1 are emerging, necessitating ongoing vigilance.
New Delhi, June 11 (NationPress) In light of a new surge in Covid-19 cases, researchers from Israel have made a significant discovery: a protein associated with the SARS-CoV-2 virus may lead the immune system to mistakenly target healthy cells.
This groundbreaking study, featured in the journal Cell Reports, elucidates the mechanisms behind severe Covid-19 complications and proposes innovative strategies to mitigate immune-related damage caused by the virus, according to a report by Xinhua news agency.
Scientists at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem identified that the virus's nucleocapsid protein (NP), typically responsible for encapsulating the virus's genetic material within infected cells, can migrate to neighboring uninfected epithelial cells.
When NP attaches to the surface of these healthy cells, it is misperceived by the immune system as a danger. Consequently, the immune response activates anti-NP antibodies, marking these non-infected cells for elimination.
This cascade initiates the classical complement pathway, part of the immune response that triggers inflammation and tissue damage, leading to severe Covid symptoms and potentially contributing to long Covid.
Utilizing laboratory-grown cells, advanced imaging techniques, and samples from Covid-19 patients, researchers discovered that NP binds to specific molecules on cell surfaces, resulting in clustering that further misguides the immune system.
The research also revealed that the drug enoxaparin, a widely used blood thinner and heparin analog, can inhibit NP from adhering to healthy cells.
In both laboratory settings and patient samples, enoxaparin effectively prevented immune attacks by occupying the binding sites utilized by NP.
The findings could offer new avenues for reducing immune-related complications in Covid-19 and possibly other viral illnesses.
Simultaneously, a new Covid variant termed NB.1.8.1 has been spreading rapidly across various regions worldwide, raising fresh concerns.
This variant, which falls under the Omicron lineage, was first identified in January 2025 and has since been reported in countries including India, the US, the UK, Australia, China, Maldives, and Egypt.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially classified it as a “Variant Under Monitoring,” indicating it is spreading rapidly enough to require observation, although it is not yet deemed a major threat.
Point of View
It is imperative that we remain vigilant and informed about the evolving landscape of Covid-19. The recent findings from Israeli researchers underscore the complexity of the immune response and highlight the need for continued research and public awareness. As new variants emerge, understanding how the virus interacts with our immune system becomes crucial in safeguarding public health.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the nucleocapsid protein in Covid-19?
The nucleocapsid protein (NP) is crucial for packaging the virus's genetic material. However, it can also cause the immune system to mistakenly attack healthy cells, leading to severe complications.
How does enoxaparin help in Covid-19 treatment?
Enoxaparin, a common blood thinner, has been shown to block the nucleocapsid protein from binding to healthy cells, potentially reducing immune attacks and related complications.
What is the newly identified Covid variant NB.1.8.1?
NB.1.8.1 is a new variant of the Covid-19 virus belonging to the Omicron family, first detected in January 2025, and is currently classified as a 'Variant Under Monitoring' by the WHO.
Where has the NB.1.8.1 variant been reported?
The NB.1.8.1 variant has been reported in multiple countries, including India, the US, the UK, Australia, China, Maldives, and Egypt.
What are the implications of the study on Covid-19 treatment?
The study suggests new approaches to prevent immune-related damage in Covid-19, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies for both Covid-19 and other viral infections.
