Rapid and Repetitive Inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 and Human Coronavirus on Self-Disinfecting Anionic Polymers

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Virology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic highlights the need for effective strategies to mitigate SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
• Current methods often rely on social restrictions and temporary surface disinfection.
• Emerging virus strains necessitate innovative and persistent antiviral solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate nanostructured anionic polymers as a rapid and continuous disinfecting agent.
• To assess the efficacy of these polymers in inactivating SARS-CoV-2 and a human coronavirus surrogate.
• To explore the potential application of these polymers for preventing virus transmission from surfaces.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a diverse family of architecturally and chemically varied nanostructured anionic polymers.
• Testing the polymers' ability to inactivate SARS-CoV-2 and human coronavirus 229E (HCoV-229E) on contaminated surfaces.
• Investigating the pH-drop mechanism at the polymer/pathogen interface responsible for viral inactivation.

Main Results:

• The nanostructured anionic polymers demonstrated rapid inactivation of both SARS-CoV-2 and HCoV-229E.
• Viral inactivation was achieved within minutes, reaching the minimum detection limit.
• The polymers operate via a significant pH-drop mechanism at the interface with the virus.

Conclusions:

• Nanostructured anionic polymers offer a promising, rapid, and continuous disinfecting solution for coronaviruses.
• These polymers can effectively prevent virus transmission from contaminated surfaces.
• Potential applications include high-touch surfaces in public facilities and personal protective equipment, with no adverse health or environmental effects.