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Published on: October 11, 2013
Evaluation of in vitro SARS-CoV-2 inactivation by a new quaternary ammonium compound: Bromiphen bromide
Sergio Strizzi1, G Cappelletti1, M Biasin1
1Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
Abstract:
The pneumonia (COVID-19) outbreak caused by the novel coronavirus named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which unpredictably exploded in late December of 2019 has stressed the importance of being able to control potential pathogens with the aim of limiting their spread. Although vaccines are well known as a powerful tool for ensuring public health and controlling the pandemic, disinfection and hygiene habits remain crucial to prevent infection from spreading and maintain the barrier, especially when the microorganism can persist and survive on textiles, surfaces, and medical devices. During the coronavirus disease pandemic, around half of the disinfectants authorized by the US Environmental Protection Agency contained quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs); their effectiveness had not been proven. Herein, the in vitro SARS-CoV-2 inactivation by p-bromodomiphen bromide, namely bromiphen (BRO), a new, potent, and fast-acting QAC is reported. This study demonstrates that BRO, with a dose as low as 0.02%, can completely inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication in just 30 s. Its virucidal activity was 10- and 100-fold more robust compared to other commercially available QACs, namely domiphen bromide and benzalkonium chloride. The critical micellar concentration and the molecular lipophilicity potential surface area support the relevance of the lipophilic nature of these molecules for their activity.
Insights
A new quaternary ammonium compound, bromiphen (BRO), effectively inactivates SARS-CoV-2. This potent disinfectant inhibits viral replication within 30 seconds at a low concentration, offering a crucial tool for infection control.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Materials Science
Background:
- The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic highlighted the need for effective pathogen control measures.
- Disinfection remains critical for preventing the spread of viruses like SARS-CoV-2, particularly on surfaces and medical equipment.
- Quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) are common disinfectants, but their efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the in vitro efficacy of a novel quaternary ammonium compound, p-bromodomiphen bromide (bromiphen, BRO), against SARS-CoV-2.
- To compare the virucidal activity of BRO with existing commercial QACs.
Main Methods:
- In vitro testing of SARS-CoV-2 inactivation by BRO.
- Determination of the effective concentration and contact time for BRO.
- Comparative analysis of BRO's virucidal activity against domiphen bromide and benzalkonium chloride.
Main Results:
- Bromiphen (BRO) demonstrated potent and rapid inactivation of SARS-CoV-2.
- Complete inhibition of viral replication was achieved with 0.02% BRO in just 30 seconds.
- BRO exhibited 10- to 100-fold greater virucidal activity compared to domiphen bromide and benzalkonium chloride.
Conclusions:
- Bromiphen (BRO) is a highly effective and fast-acting disinfectant against SARS-CoV-2.
- The lipophilic nature of QACs, including BRO, is crucial for their virucidal activity.
- BRO represents a promising agent for disinfection strategies against SARS-CoV-2 and potentially other pathogens.
