Explainer: How the AstraZeneca-Oxford COVID vaccine works

The video explains the AstraZeneca Oxford vaccine, which uses a genetically modified chimpanzee cold virus as a vector to deliver the genetic code for the coronavirus spike protein. This spike protein is crucial for the virus to enter human cells. The vaccine's vector is weakened and cannot grow in the human body. Once injected, it prompts cells to produce spike proteins, which are harmless but trigger an immune response. This response generates antibodies and memory cells that recognize and fight the actual SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for COVID-19.

What is the role of the spike proteins on the coronavirus?

• They make the virus resistant to vaccines.

• They are responsible for the virus's color.

• They give the virus its crown-like appearance and assist in binding to receptors.

• They help the virus to replicate.

What is the purpose of the gene carried by the AstraZeneca Oxford vaccine?

• To code for the spike protein used by the coronavirus to enter human cells.

• To make the virus more potent.

• To create a new strain of the virus.

• To alter the human DNA permanently.

What is the function of the vector used in the AstraZeneca Oxford vaccine?

• To replace the human immune system.

• To deliver the spike protein gene to human cells without causing infection.

• To act as a placebo in the vaccine.

• To grow inside the human body and cause infection.

How does the body respond to the spike proteins produced by the vaccine?

• It mounts an immune response, producing antibodies and memory cells.

• It becomes infected with the virus.

• It develops a resistance to all viruses.

• It ignores them as they are harmless.

What is the ultimate goal of the immune response triggered by the vaccine?

• To alter the genetic makeup of the virus.

• To recognize and fight the actual virus causing COVID-19.

• To create a new type of virus.

• To make the body immune to all diseases.