Image 1: Human ACE2 dimer and SARS-CoV-2 RBD, full view.

In this image, a dimerized hACE2 unit (blue and green) is shown associating with the receptor binding domain of the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 (orange and red). This association permits the novel coronavirus to enter the cell and reproduce; our research is focused on preventing this association.

Image 2: Human ACE2 dimer and SARS-CoV-2 RBD, two binding sites.

As above, an ACE2 dimer (blue and green) is shown bound to SARS-CoV-2 RBD (orange and red). In this view, you can more clearly see the symmetry and the binding site itself.

Image 3: Human ACE2 dimer and SARS-CoV-2 RBD, one binding site.

In this image, a single ACE2 chain (blue) is shown bound to SARS-CoV2 RBD (orange). From this view, you can more clearly see the alignment of the chains.

Image 4: Renzi-Ghersi ACE2 decoy, cartoon view.

Here, the Renzi-Gherzi decoy (paper here) is shown (purple). This decoy is simply the two alpha-helices of human ACE2 with the most (~90%) interactions with the receptor binding domain. Currently, we think this decoy could be used as a medication that would physically block binding of SARS-CoV-2 to human cells by binding to the virus itself, which would prevent infection. We are also considering modifications to this decoy.

Image 5: Renzi-Ghersi ACE2 decoy with SARS-CoV-2 RBD.

In this view, the Renzi-Ghersi decoy (purple) is shown bound to the virus's receptor binding domain (orange). We are running simulations to ensure this decoy can reliably bind in vivo, avoid decomposing in free solution, and that it is the best option. We will also attempt making small changes to the sequence and simulating those as well.