User:Elizabeth Yowell/SandboxGiavanna

Introduction

Introduction

SARS-CoV-2 better known as Covid-19 sent the world into a global pandemic. In order to create a vaccine, it was essential to understand how SARS-CoV-2 infected us.

The enzyme angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is attached to our cell membranes bound to a receptor binding domain (RBD) ^[1]. The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 enters our bodies and binds to the RBD, allowing the spike protein access to ACE2 and our host cells ^[2]. Once the spike protein has access to our host cells, it is able to further infect our cells and spread the virus throughout our bodies, causing us to get sick. In order to create an effective vaccine, the pathway between the spike protein and the RBD needs to be interrupted.

Where do we begin... ^[3].

It all starts at the ACE2 receptor, but what is that? Let's investigate!

Figure Legend: The coolest image of this protein EVAH and it was handmade!!!^[3].

Function

Mechanism

Active Site

Inhibitor Differences