O-GalNAc glycosylation affects the immunogenicity of the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein

Chem Commun (Camb). 2023 Feb 9;59(13):1797-1800. doi: 10.1039/d2cc06583e.

Abstract

The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 has been widely used as an effective vaccine immunogen, although some limitations still remain. Herein, O-GalNAc glycosylated RBD (Tn-RBD) was synthesized as an antigen via in vitro glycosylation reactions. The inhibition ability against hACE2 binding of antibodies induced with Tn-RBD was 30-40% increased compared to that induced with RBD. This result implies that Tn-glycosylation might play important roles in the immunogenicity of the RBD protein, which should be considered in the design of novel vaccines to fight against COVID-19.

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Viral
  • COVID-19*
  • Glycosylation
  • Humans
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus / chemistry
  • Viral Vaccines*

Substances

  • spike protein, SARS-CoV-2
  • Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus
  • Antibodies, Viral
  • Viral Vaccines