AstraZeneca is developing mAbs to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein contains the virus's RBD, which enables the virus to bind to receptors on human cells. By targeting this region of the virus's spike protein, antibodies can block the virus's attachment to human cells, and, therefore, is expected to block infection. Amino acid substitutions have been introduced into the antibodies to both extend their half-lives, which should prolong their potential prophylactic benefit, and decrease Fc effector function in order to decrease the potential risk of antibody-dependent enhancement of disease.

AZD7442, a combination of 2 of these mAbs (AZD8895 and AZD1061), is being evaluated for administration to treat or prevent COVID-19. There are currently one ongoing Phase I study and two ongoing Phase III studies with AZD7442, in addition to this treatment study.

Enrollment of up to approximately 1700 participants is planned.

Results

On October 11, 2021, AstraZeneca announced TACKLE met the primary endpoint of the trial.

A dose of 600mg of AZD7442 was given by intramuscular (IM) injection that reduced the risk of developing severe COVID-19 or death (from any cause) by 50% compared to placebo in outpatients who had been symptomatic for seven days or less.