Publications by authors named "William K Sharkey"
Sci Immunol
December 2022
Article Synopsis
- Multiple safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines have been developed globally, utilizing different technologies and strategies to enhance their efficacy.!
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- Vaccines with specific "prefusion-stabilizing S mutations" trigger stronger antibody responses in humans, leading to better recognition and neutralization of the spike protein compared to those without these modifications.!
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- The study findings suggest a need for improved designs in future S-engineered vaccines to ensure they remain effective against new variants of the virus.!
Article Synopsis
- The Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 includes various sublineages such as BA.2, BA.2.12.1, BA.4, and BA.5, which are now more prevalent than the earlier BA.1 variant.
- These sublineages have mutations that enhance binding to ACE2, reduce cell fusion capabilities, and significantly lower neutralizing antibody responses from previous infections or vaccines.
- However, booster shots using the original Wuhan-Hu-1 spike sequence can significantly enhance neutralizing antibody levels, suggesting that while initial vaccinations may be less effective against Omicron, boosters can still provide strong protection against severe illness.
