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Improving Nasal Protection for Preventing SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Riccardo Nocini1, Brandon Michael Henry2, Camilla Mattiuzzi3
1Unit of Otorhinolaryngology, Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Paediatrics and Gynaecology, University of Verona, Piazzale L.A. Scuro 10, 37134 Verona, Italy.
New nasal barrier strategies may protect against SARS-CoV-2 infection, especially for vulnerable individuals. These approaches aim to trap the virus at the nasal mucosa surface, offering an alternative to waning immunity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Drug Delivery
Background:
- Airborne pathogens like SARS-CoV-2 primarily infect via the nasal epithelia.
- Existing mucosal immunity from infection or vaccination wanes and struggles with new variants.
- SARS-CoV-2 naive or seronegative individuals lack initial nasal defense.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore alternative strategies for preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection at the nasal mucosa.
- To identify methods that create physical barriers or block viral entry in the nasal passages.
Main Methods:
- Review of infection preventive strategies focusing on nasal barriers.
- Evaluation of mucoadhesive compounds for virus entrapment.
- Assessment of agents blocking SARS-CoV-2 receptor association or spike protein binding.
Main Results:
- Physical barriers using mucoadhesive properties can impede viral entry.
- Strategies preventing viral association with cellular receptors are promising.
- These approaches offer potential protection against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron sublineages.
Conclusions:
- Nasal barrier strategies are appealing alternatives to address limitations in current immunity.
- Prioritizing safe and comfortable nasal interventions for high-risk groups is recommended.
- Further development of these strategies could enhance protection against airborne viral threats.
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