Five protein fractions (albumins, globulins, prolamines, glutelins-1,
and glutelins-2) from defatted
coconut flour were fractionated and then characterized by SDS−PAGE,
gel filtration, differential
scanning calorimetry (DSC), and amino acid analysis. The albumins
and globulins were the
predominant protein fractions. Native coconut proteins consisted
of four major polypeptides with
molecular weights ranging from about 22 to greater than 100 kDa.
However, in a reduced state,
there were about seven major bands with molecular weights of between 14
and 52 kDa. SDS−PAGE of protein fractions indicates that the total protein, globulins,
and glutelins-1 are composed
of polypeptides linked via one or more disulfide bonds. DSC
analysis showed that albumins had an
endothermic peak of 94 °C, while globulins had peaks at 92, 98, and
112 °C. Amino acid analysis
demonstrated that the coconut proteins had a relatively high level of
glutamic acid, arginine, and
aspartic acid.
Keywords: Coconut protein; albumins; globulins; prolamines; glutelins;
differential scanning
calorimetry
The SARS-CoV-2 variant is rapidly spreading across the world and causes to resurge infections. We previously reported that CT-P59 presented its
in vivo
potency against Beta variants, despite its reduced activity in cell experiments. Yet, it remains uncertain to exert the antiviral effect of CT-P59 on
Gamma,
Delta and its associated variants (L452R). To tackle this question, we carried out cell tests and animal studies. CT-P59 showed neutralization against
Gamma,
Delta, Epsilon, and Kappa variants in cells, with reduced susceptibility. The mouse challenge experiments with
Gamma
and Delta variants substantiated
in vivo
potency of CT-P59 showing symptom remission and virus abrogation in the respiratory tract. Collectively, cell and animal studies showed that CT-P59 is effective against
Gamma
and Delta variants infection, hinting that CT-P59 has therapeutic
potential
for patients infected with
Gamma,
Delta and its associated variants.
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