There’s a Llama named Winter who may end up being the hero we need.
Humans have one type of antibody. Llamas have two. One of those is smaller than human antibodies.
Scientists have had success using those smaller antibodies to fight against viruses such as MERS and SARS. They’ve seen similar results in COVID-19 cell cultures, using Winter’s antibodies.
Much more work is needed, but the scientists are moving toward clinical trials. The hope is that, although a permanent cure is unlikely, a vaccine could offer the ability to protect from infection for several months.
Even if Winter does end up being a hero, I doubt that she’ll ever have a building named after her, or be given a medal, or that we’ll celebrate an annual holiday in her honor. But I can certainly dedicate a cuppa to her today.
