Researchers at Andhra University have identified a novel mechanism that may help the SARS-CoV-2 virus evade vaccine-induced immunity. Led by Dr. Ravikiran Yedidi, the team discovered the virus's spike protein can undergo a "phase shift," alternating between solid and liquid-like states.
Published on November 19, 2025, in the Elsevier journal BBA - Molecular Basis of Disease, the study explains how this structural fluidity could make it difficult for antibodies from existing vaccines to recognize and neutralize the virus. This plasticity may also facilitate the emergence of new variants.
The research, initiated in 2022, combined wet-lab experiments in molecular biology and biochemistry with advanced computational simulations to validate the findings. Dr. Ravikiran emphasized that overcoming this challenge requires moving beyond traditional methods. He advocates for the use of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and advanced biotechnology to design next-generation vaccines capable of countering such dynamic viral evasion tactics.