Oncology-Inspired Treatment Options for COVID-19.

ABSTRACT

CR3022 is a human antibody that binds to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Here, we explore the use of CR3022 as a molecularly targeted radiotherapeutic. Methods: CR3022 was labeled with 131I and purified, yielding 131I-CR3022. Using a magnetic bead assay and a recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike protein fragment, we tested binding of 131I-CR3022 in the presence and absence of CR3022. Results: We conjugated the antibody CR3022 with a purity of more than 98% and a specific activity of more than 292 MBq/mg. Using a bead-based assay, we confirmed that binding of 131I-CR3022 is selective and is significantly reduced in the presence of unlabeled antibody (3.14% ± 0.14% specific uptake and 0.10% ± 0.01% specific uptake, respectively; P < 0.0001). Conclusion: Our results confirm the potential of CR3022 as a molecularly targeted probe for SARS-CoV-2. A labeled version of CR3022 could potentially be used for Auger radiotherapy or noninvasive imaging.