Fri. Jul 18th, 2025

Chicken Egg Yolk Antibodies (IgYs) block the binding of multiple SARS-CoV-2 spike protein variants to human ACE2

 

Some egg proteins have been shown to bind to the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the virus that causes COVID-19. These egg proteins include: 
  • Immunoglobulin Y (IgY): This type of antibody found in egg yolks can be generated in hens by immunizing them with a vaccine containing the virus or its proteins, according to the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. Studies have shown that these anti-Spike-S1 IgYs can block the binding of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to the human ACE2 receptor, the main entry point for the virus into cells. They also demonstrate neutralizing activity against various SARS-CoV-2 spike protein mutants and even SARS-CoV in vitro. IgY offers advantages as a potential prophylactic or therapeutic option due to its relatively low production cost, ease of generation in large quantities, and favorable safety profile.
  • Modified Ovalbumin: A modified version of ovalbumin, a major egg white protein, called 3-hydroxyphthalic anhydride-modified chicken ovalbumin (HP-OVA), has been shown to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection by disrupting the interaction of the spike protein with the host ACE2 receptor.
  • Other Egg Proteins: Other egg proteins like ovomucin, ovotransferrin, lysozyme, cystatin, and sialic acid derivatives have also been reported to have antiviral properties, including against influenza and gastroenteritis viruses. Some of these may exert antiviral activity by interacting with viral proteins like the spike protein, though further research is needed to fully elucidate their mechanisms. 
While some egg proteins and egg-derived antibodies show promise in binding and neutralizing the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, it’s important to note that:
  • These findings are based on laboratory studies, and further research is needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in humans.
  • Naturally occurring antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 are not found in eggs unless hens are specifically immunized with the virus or its proteins.
  • The use of IgY-based therapeutics would likely involve specific formulations and administration methods (e.g., intranasal or oral sprays) rather than simply consuming eggs. 

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 virus is still spreading worldwide, and there is an urgent need to effectively prevent and control this pandemic. This study evaluated the potential efficacy of Egg Yolk Antibodies (IgY) as a neutralizing agent against the SARS-CoV-2. We investigated the neutralizing effect of anti-spike-S1 IgYs on the SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus, as well as its inhibitory effect on the binding of the coronavirus spike protein mutants to human ACE2. Our results show that the anti-Spike-S1 IgYs showed significant neutralizing potency against SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus, various spike protein mutants, and even SARS-CoV in vitro. It might be a feasible tool for the prevention and control of ongoing COVID-19.

Keywords: Chicken Egg Yolk Antibodies; IgY; Neutralizing agent; SARS-CoV-2; Spike protein variants.

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