ANTI-SARS-COV-2 SPIKE PROTEIN

The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-Cov-2) is the virus responsible for the coronavirus pandemic that has claimed millions of victims. This virus, like other viruses, consists of spike proteins that help the virus invade the host cells and cause infection.

The spike protein of the SARS-Cov-2 virus consists of two primary parts- the N-terminal S1 subunit and the C-terminal S2 subunit. The former forms the spherical head of the virus, whereas the S2 subunit makes up the stalk of the virus cell. It is directly embedded into the viral envelope.

When the SARS-Cov-2 virus infects a healthy individual, the S1 subunit in the spike protein will identify the host cells and bind itself to these cells. Next, the S2 subunit takes up the responsibility of fusing the envelope of the virus with the host cell membrane. Since the spike protein plays a defining role in the interaction of the virus with the host cells, the vaccination and treatment methods have to target these proteins.

The Anti-SARS-Cov-2 spike protein test is a diagnostic test used to detect the number of antibodies created in response to the spike protein in the SARS-Cov-2 virus. It is a reliable marker to measure the effectiveness of vaccines by checking the protective immunity level achieved after vaccination. Low immunity might allow the virus to seep into host cells readily and cause life-threatening issues.

The procedure for the Anti-SARS-Cov-2 spike protein test is that of a blood test. The clinical lab assistant draws blood from the vein in your arm and sends it for further analysis. The subsequent results may indicate the level of specific antibodies in the blood, which may help determine the effectiveness of the vaccine.

If the results show a positive result, it could be due to one of the following reasons:

• The patient has had a coronavirus infection in the past, and the immune system has prepared antibodies against it
• The Anti-SARS-Cov-2 vaccine has resulted in the formation of antibodies

Apollo 24/7 offers a comprehensive Anti-SARS-Cov-2 spike protein test that checks for the presence of IgG antibodies prepared in response to the Anti-SARS-Cov-2 virus. Some of the symptoms that may indicate the presence of this virus in the body are: 

• Fever and cough
• Tiredness 
• Red or irritated eyes
• Loss of taste or smell
• Diarrhoea
• Discolouration of fingers or toes
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• A rash on the skin
• Loss of speech or mobility or confusion

The onset of one or more of these symptoms may require immediate medical attention since they are tell-tale signs of a coronavirus. An Anti-SARS-Cov-2 vaccine might help the body fight against the virus by creating IgG antibodies. 
 

Frequently asked questions

Which test should you take to check the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines?

The Anti-SARS-Cov-2 spike protein test is used to measure the levels of IgE antibodies in the blood and check the effectiveness of the vaccine. If the IgE levels in the body are high, the vaccine is effective and may help prevent infection. It might also indicate that you have had a COVID-19 infection in the past, and the immune system has prepared antibodies in response.

Can your Anti-SARS-Cov-2 spike protein test results be negative even if you have the infection?

Yes, false negatives are possible during the Anti-SARS-Cov-2 spike protein test. These happen when you are tested early, and the body has not prepared antibodies yet. In these cases, the doctor may recommend the test again after sufficient time, based on your signs and symptoms.

When should I take the Anti-SARS-Cov-2 spike protein test?

A doctor usually recommends taking the Anti-SARS-Cov-2 spike protein test to check the effectiveness of a recently taken vaccine. There are also other reasons to take this test, such as: If you have been in contact with someone suffering from the virus Lived in places where COVID-19 transmission is widespread Had COVID-19 previously but are cured now

Why should you take the Anti-SARS-Cov-2 spike protein test?

The anti-SARS-Cov-2 spike protein test is helpful to understand whether you are susceptible to a COVID-19 infection or have already recovered from one. Additionally, vaccination may not always have the desired effect. This test will aid you in determining the number of IgE antibodies created in the body in response to the virus.

What are some reference values for the Anti-SARS-Cov-2 spike protein test?

Some of the estimated reference values for the Anti-SARS-Cov-2 spike protein test are: A value greater than or equal to 80 units/ml may indicate IgG antibodies in the blood to fight COVID-19 A value lesser than 80 units/ml may point to insufficient antibodies in the blood

How safe is the Anti-SARS-Cov-2 spike protein test?

The Anti-SARS-Cov-2 spike protein test is a standard blood test that offers no risk if performed with all precautions in place. At most, you might encounter slight bruising at the spot where the lab technician draws blood. However, it fades away rapidly.