‘Smart’ Red Blood Cells Could Improve COVID-19 Vaccines

Scientists in Canada modified red blood cells with spike proteins to initiate an immune response against coronaviruses.

Tim HayesContributing Editor, Healthcare Packaging

Mar 21st, 2022

A recent Medgadget article discussed the development of a new method for protecting against COVID-19. A team of researchers at McMaster University modified red blood cells in hopes of protecting against future variants. The strategy involves repurposing red blood cells by emptying them out and attaching spike proteins, that mimic a coronavirus, to the outside. The method triggers the immune response without the use of genetic material, which essentially reduces side effects. A video with more information can be seen here.

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