Human B-cell receptor specific for SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (BCR (SARS-CoV-2 S))

Human B-cell receptors (BCRs) specific for SARS-CoV-2 spike epitopes are membrane-bound immunoglobulins on B lymphocytes that recognize the spike (S) protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus (Robbiani et al., 2020, Nature). These receptors are central to the adaptive immune response, serving as the primary sensors for viral entry and the precursors to secreted neutralizing antibodies (Gaebler et al., 2021, Nature). Upon binding to specific epitopes on the S1 or S2 subunits of the spike protein, these BCRs trigger B-cell activation, clonal expansion, and differentiation into memory B cells and plasma cells (Sakharkar et al., 2021, Nature). This interaction is the fundamental principle behind COVID-19 vaccines, such as BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273, which aim to prime these specific B-cell populations to provide long-term protection (CDC, 2023). Therapeutic strategies also involve characterizing these receptors to derive potent monoclonal antibodies for passive immunization (NIH, 2022). However, the rapid mutation of the spike protein in emerging variants poses a significant challenge, as it can lead to reduced BCR binding affinity and subsequent immune evasion (Harvey et al., 2021, Nature Reviews Microbiology). Monitoring the BCR repertoire is therefore essential for designing next-generation vaccines and understanding the longevity of natural and vaccine-induced immunity.

Other names

SARS-CoV-2 spike-specific B-cell receptorAnti-S BCRSpike-reactive B-cell receptorSARS-CoV-2 S-binding BCRSARS-CoV-2 spike-specific B-cell

Antigen-induced B-cell receptor signaling leading to clonal expansion and differentiation into plasma cells and memory B cells.