Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine say they appear to have made a breakthrough when it comes to the treatment and possible prevention of coronavirus.

Researchers claim to have isolated 'the smallest biological molecule' that 'completely and specifically neutralizes' the virus that causes coronavirus.

A drug has been created called Ab8 and is an antibody component which is 10 times smaller than regular, full-sized antibody.

Scientists have been encouraged by trials that appear to have been 'highly effective in preventing and treating' the SARS-CoV-2 infections in mice and hamsters.   

Importantly, it does not bind to human cells - a good sign that it won't have negative side effects in people. 

The drug could be seen as a potential preventative against SARS-CoV-2 according to the researchers at UPMC.

'Ab8 not only has potential as therapy for COVID-19, but it also could be used to keep people from getting SARS-CoV-2 infections,' said co-author John Mellors, chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Pitt and UPMC.