Cayman scientists have developed a SARS-CoV-2 Neutralizing Antibody Detection ELISA Kit to enable semi-quantitative identification of neutralizing antibodies in human plasma or serum to the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
ANN ARBOR, MI, August 6, 2020 — Cayman scientists have developed a SARS-CoV-2 Neutralizing Antibody Detection ELISA Kit to enable semi-quantitative identification of neutralizing antibodies in human plasma or serum to the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. Starting approximately 4-10 days after symptom onset, SARS-CoV-2 infection can result in the production of neutralizing antibodies that bind to the viral spike protein receptor binding domain (RBD) on the S1 subunit and prevent its interaction with the human ACE2 receptor, preventing further viral entry and infection. By screening for the circulating antibodies that interrupt this binding, investigators will be able to study antibody response and recovery from infection.
“We designed the ELISA to detect any antibodies—independent of isotype—that neutralize the spike-ACE2 interaction,” said Daniel Tew, Manager of ELISA Research and Development at Cayman. “Any SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies present will interfere with the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 spike RBD and ACE2.”
SARS-CoV-2 Neutralizing Antibody Detection ELISA Kit assay design.
The competitive ELISA includes a SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody as a standard that was carefully tested to ensure its interference with the ACE2 protein for binding sites on the SARS-CoV-2 spike S1 RBD. Robust and easy to use, this assay can be completed in under four hours using a plate-based, colorimetric (450 nm) readout. The assay has a range of 7.81-1,000 ng/ml with a midpoint of approximately 107 ng/ml (50% B/B0) and a sensitivity (80% B/B0) of approximately 41 ng/ml. This kit was validated using plasma from volunteers that tested positive in a PCR test for COVID-19.
“The detection of neutralizing antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 is important in evaluating the lifetime and efficacy of specific antibodies in the infected individual,” said Dr. María Inés Morano, Senior Director of Discovery Research and Development at Cayman. “This ELISA offers the opportunity to investigate SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies present in convalescent plasma as well as those raised against the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein in vitro.” This should be a valuable tool for researchers studying immune responses, developing vaccines, or those studying herd immunity.
About Cayman Chemical
Cayman Chemical Company helps make research possible by supplying scientists worldwide with biochemical tools used to understand cancer, neurochemistry, oxidative injury, endocrinology, atherosclerosis, and other human health challenges. Our scientists are experts in the synthesis, purification, and characterization of biochemicals ranging from small drug-like heterocycles to complex biolipids, fatty acids, and many others for use as research reagents and qualified standards. We are also highly skilled in all aspects of assay and antibody development, protein expression, crystallization, and structure determination. In addition, we offer a wide range of analytical services using LC-MS/MS, HPLC, GC, and many other techniques. Cayman performs generic drug development and production in both Ann Arbor, Michigan and Neratovice, Czech Republic.
