Novel nanoparticles can trap and neutralize large amounts of SARS-CoV-2

Researchers from the IBB-UAB have developed a new class of nanostructures capable of trapping and neutralizing large quantities of the SARS-CoV-2 virus particles, both in liquid solutions and on the surface of materials.

These novel nanoparticles could be used to manufacture antiviral materials such as wastewater and air filters, and could be exploited to develop new tests for the early detection of COVID-19. Moreover, the nanoparticles could be redesigned to target other pathogens.

The new nanoparticles, called LCB1-NPs and LCB3-NPs, are formed by repeats of three proteins, which are joined together thanks to the self-assembly properties of one of the three, called ZapB.

In the genetic engineering strategy that was implemented, the researchers fused ZapB with the mCherry protein, which confers red fluorescence to the nanoparticles, and to this union they added the LCB1 and LCB3 proteins, which provide the ability to bind and neutralize the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Thus, by forming these nanostructures, it was possible to localize all these functions in a single nanoparticle.

The researchers underscore the high affinity of the nanoparticles to bind to the viral spike protein that allows SARS-CoV-2 internalization into cells. This process enables the nanoparticles to neutralize the infection in both liquid solutions and be immobilized on a surface. This demonstrates the great versatility of this new antiviral nanomaterial, paving the way for its utilization in a multitude of applications.

Image source: Fornt Suné et al. (2024), Advanced Healthcare Materials.