Researchers have developed a molecule that, when administered nasally, is highly effective in preventing disease caused by all known variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This molecule aims to prevent both transmission and spread of the virus, and thus could be an important tool for preparing for future pandemics.
Laboratory animal studies have confirmed that a molecule known as TriSb92, developed by researchers at the University of Helsinki, provides effective protection against coronavirus infection. This molecule identifies a region of the coronavirus spike protein common to all current variants of the virus and inhibits its function.
“When administered intranasally, the TriSb92 molecule is highly effective in preventing infection, and experiments performed in cell culture show that it also includes modern variants such as XBB, BF7 and BQ.1.1.” Postdoctoral researcher Anna R. Mäkelä explains Prof. Kalle Saxela’s research group.
Animal models have also demonstrated that, unlike face masks, the molecules when sprayed into the nose can prevent infection even after hours of exposure.
Researchers say the molecule remains fully functional at room temperature for at least 18 months, making it suitable for use as a nasal spray.
The results were published in the Nature Communications journal.
Prediction of future virus variants
The worst stages of the coronavirus pandemic are behind us, at least for the time being, but nasal protection could be an important help in preventing future spread of the virus.
“The latest variant effectively circumvents the immune protection provided by both the vaccine and the COVID-19 disease. Current vaccines are ineffective at preventing infection,” Mäkelä said.
In addition, nasal sprays can protect people who do not get adequate immunity from vaccines, such as immunocompromised people and the elderly, from serious illness.
The molecule may also work against future animal-derived SARS-CoV-2 relatives, which are expected to be responsible for an entirely new coronavirus pandemic, according to the researchers.
“The region of the coronavirus spike protein that is affected by the TriSb92 molecule remains largely unchanged in all virus variants that have emerged so far, and is therefore also effective against future SARS-CoV-2 variants. ,” confirms Mäkelä.
“Until a vaccine is developed, manufactured and distributed, TriSb92, easily and cheaply produced, could be a very important first line of defense in curbing this new pandemic.” she adds.
Copiable approach
According to the researchers, the Sherpabody technology used can also be applied to prevent many other viral diseases, especially influenza and other respiratory viruses.
“The whole approach stems from a technical solution based on a Finnish-developed binder protein platform, which was not originally intended for the development of antiviral drugs. It provides opportunities for many other new initiatives based on the precise identification of pathogens,” says Mäkelä.
In the next step, the molecule should be tested in clinical trials. It may then be marketed.
“The successful commercialization of nasal sprays could create a thriving business in Finland,” Mäkelä points out.
Original: Nasal Spray Prevents Coronavirus Infection – Also Effective Against Recent Immune Evasion Mutants
Than: University of Helsinki
