Structural Insights into the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein and Its Implications for Antibody Resistance

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has profoundly affected global health and the economy. The emergence of variants with spike mutations, particularly within the receptor-binding domain (RBD), has reduced the efficacy of many neutralizing antibodies (nAbs), and recent variants, including KP.3 and other circulating strains, show partial escape from infection- or vaccine-induced immunity. To overcome this, developing broad-spectrum nAbs that target the conserved S2 subunit of the spike protein is crucial. Unlike the highly mutable RBD, the S2 region remains structurally conserved, providing a promising foundation for universal protection. Deeper insight into S2 structure and function, together with advances in bispecific antibody design, could facilitate the development of next-generation therapeutics resilient to viral evolution. This review examines the structural evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 spike, focusing on the therapeutic potential of S2-targeting antibodies and strategies to overcome antibody resistance.