A new method of protection from the SARS-CoV-2 virus has been developed by researchers in the form of an inhalable powder. This powder, made of polymer and gelatin microparticles, has been tested on mice and monkeys, and has been found to form a gel lining that protects the respiratory tract from coronavirus infections.
Mice administered the powder experienced 8-hour protection with up to 75% efficiency, and the powder was also tested on African green monkeys. The monkeys were given the powder through an inhaler device, and then were inoculated with the original SARS-CoV-2 strain or its delta variant. The treated monkeys’ viral loads were 50-300-fold lower than those of the animals in the control group.
The researchers are now seeking approval from the US Food and Drug Administration to test the powder in humans, and if approved, the powder could provide short-term protection for people entering crowded places, such as supermarkets or aircraft. The powder has also been shown to protect against flu and pneumonia-causing viruses, suggesting it could protect against a range of respiratory viruses with pandemic potential. Certain practical considerations may need to be made, such as taking the powder nasally instead of inhaling it, to avoid coughing.
Researchers have developed an inhalable powder that could provide protection from SARS-CoV-2 and its variants, including any which may potentially evade existing vaccines. The powder has been tested on mice and monkeys, with positive results. The researchers are now seeking approval from the US Food and Drug Administration to test the powder in humans, and if approved, it could provide short-term protection for people entering crowded places. The powder has also been shown to protect against flu and pneumonia-causing viruses, suggesting it could protect against a range of respiratory viruses with pandemic potential. Certain practical considerations may need to be taken into account, such as taking the powder nasally instead of inhaling it, to avoid coughing.