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Harnessing biomaterials for therapeutic strategies against COVID-19
Thibault Colombani1, Zachary J Rogers1, Loek J Eggermont1
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115 USA.
Abstract:
With the emergence of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the world is experiencing a profound human health crisis. The number of infections and deaths due to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) continues to increase every minute, pinpointing major shortcomings in our ability to prevent viral outbreaks. Although several COVID-19 vaccines have been recently approved for emergency use, therapeutic options remain limited, and their long-term potency has yet to be validated. Biomaterials science has a pivotal role to play in pushing the boundaries of emerging technologies for antiviral research and treatment. In this perspective, we discuss how biomaterials can be harnessed to develop accurate COVID-19 infection models, enhance antiviral drug delivery, foster new antiviral strategies, and boost vaccine efficacy. These efforts will not only contribute to stop or mitigate the current pandemic but will also provide unorthodox platforms to understand, prevent, and protect us from future viral outbreaks.
Insights
Biomaterials offer novel solutions for combating severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and future viral threats. These materials can improve infection models, drug delivery, and vaccine efficacy against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- The global health crisis caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) highlights critical gaps in viral outbreak prevention and treatment.
- Limited therapeutic options and unproven long-term vaccine efficacy necessitate innovative approaches.
- Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) continues to spread globally, underscoring the urgent need for advanced solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the pivotal role of biomaterials science in developing advanced technologies for antiviral research and treatment.
- To discuss the application of biomaterials in creating accurate COVID-19 infection models.
- To highlight how biomaterials can enhance antiviral drug delivery, develop novel antiviral strategies, and improve vaccine efficacy.
Main Methods:
- This perspective discusses the potential of biomaterials across various applications.
- It reviews current research and future directions in harnessing biomaterials for combating viral infections.
- The focus is on innovative strategies rather than specific experimental results.
Main Results:
- Biomaterials can significantly advance the development of accurate infection models for COVID-19.
- They offer enhanced capabilities for targeted antiviral drug delivery systems.
- Biomaterials hold promise for fostering new antiviral strategies and boosting vaccine effectiveness.
Conclusions:
- Biomaterials science provides essential platforms for addressing the current COVID-19 pandemic.
- These advancements are crucial for mitigating the spread and impact of SARS-CoV-2.
- The application of biomaterials will also fortify our preparedness against future viral outbreaks.
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