UCSF Designs Innovative Nasal Spray Defense Against Covid-19
While the world waits for a vaccine, UCSF researchers are seeking alternatives to slow the spread of COVID-19. One promising approach is a nasal spray called AeroNabs.
The spray contains a three-part molecule that’s precisely engineered to recognize SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The molecule traps SARS-CoV-2 in its inactive state, much like a straitjacket, to incapacitate the virus and prevent infection.
In an aerosol formulation they tested, dubbed “AeroNabs” by the researchers, these molecules could be self-administered with a nasal spray or inhaler. Used once a day, AeroNabs could provide powerful, reliable protection against SARS-CoV-2 until a vaccine becomes available. The research team is in active discussions with commercial partners to ramp up manufacturing and clinical testing of AeroNabs. If these tests are successful, the scientists aim to make AeroNabs widely available as an inexpensive medication to prevent and treat COVID-19.
A molecule designed in a UCSF lab can disable the SARS-CoV-2 virus, preventing it from infecting cells. Researchers call it “a molecular form of PPE that could serve as an important stopgap until vaccines provide a more permanent solution to #COVID19.” https://t.co/rB6HEWJtW9
— UC San Francisco (@UCSF) August 11, 2020
