There are about 26 spike proteins on the surface of each SARS-CoV-2 viral particle that help the virus enter and infect cells. The spike protein binds to the ACE2 receptor and undergoes a conformational change from a closed or pre-fusion conformation to an open or post-fusion structure (as it fuses with the cell membrane). Some people surmise that if the viral spike protein is dangerous — because it allows the virus to enter cells — then vaccine-related spike proteins render vaccines unsafe. COVID-19 vaccines contain different spike proteins than the SARS-CoV-2 virus. All vaccines used in the United States contain two extra amino acids that lock the spike protein into the prefusion conformation, such that it cannot fuse with the cell membrane. In this clip, Dr. Rhonda Patrick describes what distinguishes viral spike proteins from vaccine-related spike proteins.

Watch the full episode here:    • COVID Vaccine Myths, Questions, and R...  

Original episode posted Sep 17, 2021.