Hidden viral protein could pave the way for longer-lasting COVID-19 vaccines

A research team from La Trobe University in Australia and Kumamoto University in Japan has identified a protein particle within the SARS-CoV-2 virus that may lead to the development of more effective COVID-19 vaccines. Their study, published in Nature Communications, indicates that the immune system reacts robustly to an internal protein that mutates less frequently than the spike protein targeted by current vaccines.

This internal protein, known as a peptide, is presented on the surface of infected cells by an immune molecule called HLA-C, allowing killer T cells to identify and eliminate these cells. Distinguished Professor Stephanie Gras from La Trobe noted that the findings could provide an alternative to vaccines focused solely on the rapidly changing spike protein.

Professor Gras emphasized that targeting this more stable internal protein could pave the way for vaccines that remain effective against future variants, potentially reducing the need for frequent boosters. The study was supported by funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF), and involved collaboration with researchers from Kumamoto University.

Additionally, Professor Gras will head a new research center, the Post-Acute Viral Infection diseases Group (PAVING), aimed at investigating Long COVID and other related conditions, backed by $3 million in federal funding from the NHMRC.