Protective Equipment Equipped with Antiviral Properties for Future Pandemics
In a groundbreaking scientific breakthrough, researchers are developing a universal antiviral treatment that could provide immunity against known viruses and potentially unknown ones. This treatment, which is being compared to a plot from a sci-fi movie, is the brainchild of lead researcher Dusan Bogunovic.
The treatment is based on an incredibly rare immune mutation, found in a few dozen people worldwide, that grants them immunity to known viruses. This mutation, known as ISG15 immunodeficiency, has been the focus of Bogunovic's research. Interestingly, people with this condition are more susceptible to certain bacterial illnesses, but their constant, mild inflammation is thought to be at the root of their robust immunoresponse.
The treatment is designed to stimulate the production of the most beneficial 10 proteins out of the 60 created by the natural mutation. This is achieved using 10 mRNA sequences inside a lipid nanoparticle. The treatment is then administered to hamsters and mice via nasal drip, with the first clinical trials conducted in the United States.
While the treatment's effectiveness against various viruses is still under investigation and has not been confirmed for human use, lead researcher Dusan Bogunovic states that the treatment's defenses have yet to be broken by any virus. The potential of this treatment extends beyond the current pandemic, as it is being considered as a biological Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for first responders against future pandemics.
The ultimate goal of this research is to create a treatment that can provide immunity against unknown viruses before new targeted vaccines could be developed. If successful, this could revolutionise the way we approach pandemics, flattening the curve and saving lives. The journey towards this goal continues, with scientists aiming to use intranasal vaccines for human trials of the treatment.
