New research: A plant-based chewing gum that ‘traps’ coronavirus

What is the News?

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a chewing gum that can potentially reduce transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. 

How does the covid virus spread?

When a person infected with SARS-CoV-2 sneezes, coughs or speaks, some of the viruses can be expelled and reach others.

This virus then enters the human body, usually through nose and mouth cavities, by inhaling or swallowing the virus-laden fluid or saliva.  

What role does ACE-2 protein play in this?

ACE2 is a protein on the surface of body cells. It is present in many cell types and tissues including the lungs and the gastrointestinal tract. 

When SARS-CoV-2 comes in contact with this ACE2 protein, it uses the spike-like protrusions on its surface to bind itself with the host cell. 

Hence, ACE2 effectively acts like a cellular doorway through which the virus gains entry into the cell. 

How does this chewing gum reduce the Covid Virus load?

The chewing gum is laced with a plant-grown protein that reduces the viral load in saliva and potentially lowers transmission.

The gum does this by blocking the ACE2 receptor on the cells or binding directly to the spike protein, effectively preventing the viral particles from entering cells.

Source: This post is based on the article “New research: A plant-based chewing gum that ‘traps’ coronavirus” published in PIB on 7th December 2021.