Innovative Antiviral Chewing Gum Targets Viral Infections
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Synopsis
Researchers from the US and Finland have created an innovative antiviral chewing gum that effectively reduces viral loads of herpes simplex viruses and influenza A strains, presenting a promising solution to viral infections.
Key Takeaways
- New antiviral gum reduces viral loads significantly.
- Targets common oral viruses like HSV-1 and influenza A.
- Made from lablab beans containing antiviral protein FRIL.
- Proven safe as a clinical-grade product under US FDA standards.
- Potential to address bird flu transmission as well.
New Delhi, April 5 (NationPress) A collaborative research team from the US and Finland has introduced a revolutionary antiviral chewing gum that has demonstrated its capacity to significantly lower viral loads of two herpes simplex viruses and two strains of influenza A in laboratory settings.
Seasonal influenza outbreaks occur each year, leading to a considerable global health burden. The herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), primarily transmitted through oral contact, currently infects more than two-thirds of the world's population.
The prevalence of low vaccination rates for influenza and the absence of a vaccine for HSV highlight the urgent requirement for innovative solutions.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania focused on targeting the oral cavity to combat these viruses, which are predominantly spread through the mouth rather than the nasal passages.
In a study published in the journal Molecular Therapy, the team evaluated the efficacy of a chewing gum made from lablab beans. They utilized Lablab purpureus, which naturally contains an antiviral protein known as FRIL, to neutralize HSV-1 and HSV-2, as well as two strains of influenza A: H1N1 and H3N2.
The formulation of the chewing gum facilitated effective and consistent release of FRIL at sites of viral infection.
Results indicated that 40 milligrams of a two-gram bean gum tablet was sufficient to diminish viral loads by over 95 percent.
Notably, the researchers produced the gum as a clinical-grade drug product in accordance with US FDA standards and verified its safety.
“These findings are promising for assessing the use of bean gum in human clinical trials to reduce virus infection and transmission,” stated Henry Daniell, Professor at Penn’s School of Dental Medicine.
The team is now investigating the application of lablab bean powder to address the ongoing issue of bird flu, which is currently affecting North America.
“Managing the transmission of viruses remains a significant global challenge. A broad-spectrum antiviral protein (FRIL) derived from a natural food source (bean powder) that can neutralize both human and avian flu viruses represents a timely innovation for preventing infection and transmission,” Daniell added.
