Active protein-capturing hydrogel for broad-spectrum pathogen defense

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Immunology
• Infectious Disease

Background:

• Proteinaceous agents like viruses and allergens are key drivers of infection and immune disorders.
• Current methods for neutralizing these agents are limited in broad applicability and direct protein capture.
• Mucosal surfaces are primary interfaces for pathogen entry and allergen exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize an inhalable protein trap (IPT) for broad-spectrum neutralization of proteinaceous agents.
• To evaluate the efficacy of IPT in capturing diverse biomolecules, including viral particles and allergens.
• To assess the therapeutic potential of IPT in animal models of allergic and viral diseases.

Main Methods:

• Development of an active hydrogel (IPT) utilizing NHS-amine chemistry for protein immobilization.
• Structural optimization of IPT to ensure stability and functionality of reactive NHS esters under physiological conditions.
• In vivo testing of IPT in animal models for allergic rhinitis, pollen-induced allergy, and viral infection.

Main Results:

• IPT rapidly forms a hydrogel barrier upon hydration, covalently trapping proteins and proteinaceous particles within minutes.
• The nonselective capture mechanism effectively binds viral particles, pollen/fungal allergens, and soluble mediators like histamine.
• IPT demonstrated superior performance compared to commercial barrier sprays in blocking pathogenic proteins and reducing disease severity in animal models.

Conclusions:

• IPT is a versatile platform for broad-spectrum protection against proteinaceous agents at biological interfaces.
• The technology offers a novel approach for mitigating diseases driven by viral infections and allergic responses.
• Further development of IPT holds promise for therapeutic applications in respiratory health.