Deep Dive into Spike Proteins: History, Science, and Health Implications

Building on our most recent blog post and the release of our newest supplement line, we will be continuing to explore the science behind spike proteins in coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, drawing from peer-reviewed studies and medical explanations. We'll cover their structure, how they interact with the body, the immune response they trigger, and address ongoing debates about their role in infections and vaccines. While spike proteins are a natural part of coronaviruses and play a key role in immunity, questions about their persistence and potential effects have sparked research and controversy. At We3Wolves, we believe in supporting your body's natural resilience through natural healing means — let's dive in.

The Origins of Human Coronaviruses and Spike Proteins

Human coronaviruses have been part of our world for centuries, with the first identifications in the 1960s. Strains like HCoV-229E and HCoV-OC43, which cause mild colds, were isolated in the mid-1960s from patients with respiratory illnesses. These viruses likely jumped from animals to humans: HCoV-OC43 from bovines around 1890, and HCoV-229E from bats around 200 years ago. By the 2003 SARS outbreak, caused by SARS-CoV-1, spike proteins were spotlighted as the "key" enabling viral entry into cells via the ACE2 receptor.

Spike proteins aren't new—they're surface glycoproteins on coronaviruses that mediate attachment and fusion with host cells. Every known human coronavirus, including the four endemic ones (229E, OC43, NL63, HKU1), features spike proteins that bind to receptors like ACE2 or aminopeptidase N. Evolutionary analyses show these viruses have circulated in humans for decades to centuries, with genetic diversity increasing over time.

How Spike Proteins Work: Mechanism of Action

The spike protein is a trimeric glycoprotein protruding from the viral envelope, divided into S1 (receptor-binding) and S2 (fusion) subunits. For SARS-CoV-2, the spike binds tightly to the ACE2 receptor on human cells, particularly in the lungs, heart, and blood vessels, facilitating entry via membrane fusion. This binding is enhanced by furin cleavage, making SARS-CoV-2 more transmissible than predecessors like SARS-CoV-1.

Upon encounter, the virus uses the spike as a "key" to unlock cells: the receptor-binding domain (RBD) in S1 attaches to ACE2, triggering conformational changes that expose the fusion peptide in S2, leading to viral RNA release inside the cell. Studies show electrostatic forces drive this interaction, with mutations in the spike altering transmissibility and pathogenicity. In some cases, spike alone can activate signaling pathways, potentially contributing to inflammation without full infection.

The Body's Response: Immunity and Potential Challenges

When the body encounters spike proteins—via infection or vaccination—it mounts an innate and adaptive immune response. Innate immunity activates quickly: macrophages and dendritic cells detect the spike, releasing cytokines and presenting antigens to T cells. This leads to adaptive immunity, where B cells produce neutralizing antibodies targeting the spike's RBD, preventing viral entry, while cytotoxic T cells destroy infected cells.

In natural infection, the full virus triggers a broad response, but spike can cause direct effects like vascular damage or heart inflammation. Due to the untested and overly broad effects of the vaccines which include a long list of unnatural ingredients like polyethylene glycol, thimerosal, formaldehyde and more. mRNA vaccines (e.g., Pfizer, Moderna) instruct cells to produce modified spike, eliciting antibodies and T cells. Key differences:

 

Some studies try to suggest spike from vaccines differs: it's modified for stability (e.g., proline substitutions) and doesn't cause the same fusion as viral spike. However, many cases show persistence or immune imprinting, where repeated exposure biases responses toward original strains as well as many still arising long term health effects.

Lessons from Past Outbreaks: 2003 SARS and Beyond

The 2003 SARS-CoV-1 outbreak, infecting over 8,000 and killing 774, highlighted spike's role: it bound ACE2 similarly but less efficiently than SARS-CoV-2. This informed COVID-19 vaccine design, focusing on spike to generate antibodies without live virus. Your body "knows" spike from prior exposures—endemic coronaviruses build cross-immunity, though not fully protective against novel strains.

A Natural Path Forward 

We3Wolves three-part Spike Protein Detox Kit—comprising Turmeric with Bioperine (curcumin source), Breathe Easy Respiratory Support Complex (featuring bromelain alongside vitamin C, quercetin, and nettle), and Nattokinase. This kit is designed to support the body's natural healing, detoxification, and rebuilding processes, particularly in the context of exposure to coronavirus spike proteins from infections or vaccinations. We'll break down how each component may contribute to repair and detox, drawing from scientific studies and the McCullough Protocol, a regimen proposed by cardiologist Dr. Peter McCullough.

Overview of the McCullough Protocol

The McCullough Protocol, also known as Base Spike Detoxification (BSD), was outlined in a 2023 paper by Dr. Peter McCullough and colleagues in the Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons. It proposes a triple-agent oral regimen of nattokinase, bromelain, and curcumin to address potential persistence of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, which McCullough claims can contribute to post-acute sequelae (long COVID) or vaccine-related issues like inflammation, thrombosis, and organ damage. The protocol's mechanisms include:

• Dissolution of spike-induced thrombi: Nattokinase degrades fibrin clots allegedly formed by spike protein.
• Degradation of spike protein: Nattokinase and bromelain break down the protein directly.
• Inhibition of spike binding: Bromelain and curcumin block receptors like ACE2, preventing attachment.
• Attenuation of inflammation: All three reduce cytokine storms and oxidative stress.

Recommended dosages align closely with our kit: nattokinase 2,000 FU twice daily, bromelain 500 mg once daily, and curcumin 500 mg twice daily, for 3-12 months depending on exposure history. McCullough explains this is evidence-based for "detoxification," citing studies showing spike degradation, and claims it's safe with no known drug interactions. Proponents, including McCullough, suggest it aids recovery from spike-related pathologies like myocarditis or blood clots, based on observational reports and real patient experiences.

How Each Component Supports Repair and Detox: Mechanisms and Research

Our kit's ingredients are selected to synergize, promoting cellular resilience, natural detox pathways (e.g., liver and lymphatic function), immune balance, and circulation. Below, we detail each;

1. Nattokinase (2000 FU per capsule): Derived from fermented soybeans, nattokinase is a serine protease enzyme known for fibrinolytic (clot-busting) properties, it's the primary agent for degrading spike protein and dissolving thrombi.

   • Detox Mechanism: It cleaves peptide bonds in the spike protein, potentially rendering it inactive and aiding clearance via the liver or kidneys. This helps reduce spike-induced endothelial damage and microclots.
   • Repair Mechanism: By improving blood flow and oxygenation, it supports tissue healing, reducing inflammation in organs like the heart and lungs.
   • Key Research: A 2022 study in Molecules found nattokinase degrades SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, suggesting inhibition of infection. Another 2020 study on natto extract (containing nattokinase) showed direct inhibition of viral entry by degrading envelope proteins. McCullough cites these for its role in thrombosis resolution, with a proposed 4-5 month course to outlast infected cell lifespans. Human trials for cardiovascular health show safety and reduced clotting.

2. Bromelain (in Breathe Easy Complex, ~500 mg equivalent): A pineapple-derived enzyme with anti-inflammatory and proteolytic effects, combined here with vitamin C, quercetin, and nettle for respiratory support. McCullough includes it for spike degradation and fibrinolysis upregulation.

   • Detox Mechanism: Bromelain cleaves spike protein bonds and inhibits binding to ACE2/TMPRSS2 receptors, potentially blocking viral remnants from causing ongoing issues.
   • Repair Mechanism: It calms inflammation by modulating cytokines, aids lymphatic drainage, and enhances nutrient absorption (synergizing with curcumin). The complex's additions like quercetin further quench oxidative stress.
   • Key Research: A 2021 study in Clinical and Translational Medicine demonstrated bromelain inhibits SARS-CoV-2 infection in cells by targeting spike, ACE2, and TMPRSS2. A 2025 Scientific Reports paper showed bromelain combined with acetylcysteine (NAC) has antiviral effects against SARS-CoV-2. In vitro work from 2020 found BromAc (bromelain + NAC) disintegrates spike and envelope proteins and it attenuates spike-induced inflammation.

3. Curcumin (from Turmeric with Bioperine, 750 mg/5 mg): The active compound in turmeric, enhanced with black pepper (bioperine) for bioavailability. In the protocol, it's used for blocking spike binding and reducing inflammation.

   • Detox Mechanism: Curcumin inhibits spike-ACE2 interaction and supports liver detox enzymes, aiding spike clearance.
   • Repair Mechanism: As an antioxidant, it promotes immune balance, reduces oxidative damage, and supports whole-body vitality by calming NF-κB pathways involved in chronic inflammation.
   • Key Research: A 2022 Phytotherapy Research study found curcumin inhibits Omicron variant spike protein binding. Mechanistic reviews suggest antiviral activity via multiple pathways, including entry inhibition. McCullough highlights its role in attenuating inflammation, with doses matching our kit. A 2024 scoping review on spike neutralization includes curcumin for its immunopathology-modulating effects.

Synergistic Effects and Usage in the Kit

The trio works together: Nattokinase and bromelain degrade spike, curcumin prevents rebinding and inflammation, while the Breathe Easy additions enhance respiratory repair. McCullough suggests starting with BSD for 3 months, extending if symptoms persist. Potential benefits include energized cells, better detox (liver/lymphatic), immune modulation, and circulation support, per our kit's claims.

 

Final Thoughts: Empowering Your Health

Spike proteins are evolutionary tools for viruses, but our immune systems are built to respond. Explore our Spike Detox Kit at www.we3wolves.com to aid your body's pathways.

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