A ‘Coronavirus Inhaler’ Sounds Weird, But Here’s Why It Makes Sense

Scientists have isolated a special antibody from llamas that could prevent or treat COVID-19 and be delivered via an inhaler, according to a new study.

While humans and almost all vertebrates only make large antibodies, camelids (the family that includes camels, alpacas and llamas) can also produce miniature versions. These special antibodies are smaller and simpler, yet just as effective, so parts can be turned into drugs or 'nanobodies' for an inhaler similar to the device used to control asthma.