Researchers at North Carolina State University have published an article in Nature Materials describing preclinical development of an inhalation powder they are calling “SHIELD” (Spherical Hydrogel Inhalation for Enhanced Lung Defense) that has demonstrated the ability to block viral lung infections in mouse and non-human primate models. Studies found that the SHIELD DPI blocked viruses — including SARS-CoV-2, pneumonia, and flu — at 75% efficiency 4 hours post-dose in mice and reduced viral loads of SARS-CoV-2 in monkeys by as much as 300-fold.
NC State Professor Ke Cheng said, “The idea behind this work is simple – viruses have to penetrate the mucus in order to reach and infect the cells, so we’ve created an inhalable bioadhesive that combines with your own mucus to prevent viruses from getting to your lung cells. Mucus is the body’s natural hydrogel barrier; we are just enhancing that barrier.”
Cheng added, “SHIELD is easier and safer to use than other physical barriers or anti-virus chemicals. It works like an ‘invisible mask’ for people in situations where masking is difficult, for example during heavy exercise, while eating or drinking, or in close social interactions. People can also use SHIELD on top of physical masking to have better protection. But the beauty of SHIELD is that it isn’t necessarily limited to protecting against COVID-19 or flu. We’re looking at whether it could also be used to protect against things like allergens or even air pollution – anything that could potentially harm the lungs.”
Read the North Carolina State University press release.
Read the Nature Materials article.
