Nasal Emulgel's Role in Preventing Coronavirus Infection

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Virology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Coronaviruses (CoVs) cause a spectrum of respiratory illnesses, from mild colds to severe diseases like SARS and pandemics.
• The nasal cavity is a key entry and transmission point for CoVs.
• There is a critical need for effective preventive measures against respiratory viruses, particularly at the initial site of infection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel mucoadhesive emulgel using simple, safe, and cost-effective excipients.
• To create a nasal barrier that impedes coronavirus infection.
• To ensure rapid and straightforward in vivo translation of the formulation for practical application.

Main Methods:

• Three emulgels were prepared with macadamia oil, Carbopol, and varying concentrations of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC).
• Formulations were characterized for mucoadhesion, viscosity, and spreadability.
• In vitro biological activity against SARS-CoV-2 was assessed on infected epithelial cells.

Main Results:

• The emulgel containing 1.2% HPMC exhibited optimal physicochemical properties for nasal application (mucoadhesion, viscosity, spreadability).
• In vitro assays confirmed significant inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 infection in epithelial cells.
• The emulgel demonstrated an effective barrier against viral diffusion.

Conclusions:

• A novel mucoadhesive emulgel was successfully developed using readily available, safe, and inexpensive excipients.
• This formulation provides a practical, scalable, and rapidly translatable nasal prophylactic strategy.
• The emulgel addresses a critical unmet need for preventing early SARS-CoV-2 infection and enhancing pandemic preparedness.