U.S. researchers at the University of California, San Diego, are pioneering a novel COVID-19 therapy: injecting "nano-sponges" to lure the virus away from human cells. This targeted approach could deliver rapid results and apply to other diseases.
Nanotechnology expert Liangfang Zhang and his UCSD team outlined this strategy in a Nano Letters study published June 17, 2020. The nano-sponges serve as decoys for SARS-CoV-2, diverting it from real human cells.
Upon binding to a nano-sponge, the virus loses its infectivity. Immune cells then engulf and eliminate it. These structures feature a polymer core coated in epithelial membranes from lung or macrophage cells, including the protein receptors the virus targets.
Collaborating with Boston University, tests showed nano-sponges at 5 mg per liter inhibiting coronavirus activity by 93% with lung cell membranes, limiting lung infections. Macrophage-coated versions achieved an 88% inhibition rate, addressing cytokine storms that spark violent inflammation. In both cases, viral infectivity plummeted.
Delivery options include direct lung injection for respiratory cases or intravenous for cytokine storms. Animal trials are planned soon to assess real-world efficacy.
The team notes nano-sponges' broad potential against other viruses and bacteria, offering advantages over pathogen-specific treatments like vaccines or antibodies.
