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Updated: Jul 16, 2026
Titration of Human Coronaviruses Using an Immunoperoxidase Assay
Published on: April 28, 2008
Binding and inactivation of human coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, onto purified clinoptilolite-tuff
S Nizet1, J Rieger2, A Sarabi3
1Glock Health, Science and Research GmbH, Hausfeldstrasse 17, 2232, Deutsch-Wagram, Austria. stephane.nizet@glock.at.
Abstract:
The current COVID19 pandemic is caused by a positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus, which presents high mutational rates. The development of effective therapeutics and mitigation strategies using vaccination or therapeutic antibodies faces serious challenges because of the regular emergence of immune escape variants of the virus. An efficient approach would involve the use of an agent to non-specifically limit or block viruses contacting the mucosae and therefore entering the body. Here, we investigated the ability of a micronized purified clinoptilolite-tuff to bind and neutralize different viruses from the Coronaviridae family. Using plaque assay, RT-qPCR and immunostaining, the adsorption and inactivation of the seasonal human coronavirus HCoV-229E and of 2 SARS-CoV-2 variants were demonstrated. The resulting data suggest that purified clinoptilolite-tuff could be used as an ingredient in new medical devices and/or pharmaceuticals to prevent or mitigate SARS-CoV-2 dissemination.
Insights
A purified clinoptilolite-tuff effectively binds and neutralizes coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2 variants. This natural mineral shows potential for preventing viral entry and spread, offering a new strategy against respiratory viruses.
Area of Science:
- Mineralogy
- Virology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic is driven by a rapidly mutating RNA virus, SARS-CoV-2.
- Emergence of immune escape variants poses challenges for vaccines and therapeutics.
- Non-specific agents blocking viral mucosal entry are needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the antiviral properties of micronized purified clinoptilolite-tuff.
- To assess its ability to bind and neutralize coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Main Methods:
- Plaque assays
- Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR)
- Immunostaining
Main Results:
- Clinoptilolite-tuff demonstrated adsorption and inactivation of human coronavirus HCoV-229E.
- The material also showed efficacy against two SARS-CoV-2 variants.
- Adsorption and neutralization of coronaviruses were confirmed.
Conclusions:
- Purified clinoptilolite-tuff exhibits broad-spectrum antiviral activity against coronaviruses.
- It can be a valuable ingredient in medical devices or pharmaceuticals.
- This offers a novel approach to prevent or mitigate SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
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