Russia (bbabo.net) - The University of Helsinki has developed a "biological mask" to protect against COVID-19. The new molecule spray can protect against contamination for at least eight hours.

A new molecule called TriSb92 has already been tested on cells and animals, according to the press service of the university. According to the observation of scientists, the action of the nasal spray, which contains this element, begins immediately after use, and lasts for quite a long time, including in high-risk situations. For example, when tested in mice, TriSb92 protected against infection even when all unprotected mice were infected.

As the lead author of the study, Anna Mäkelä, noted, the molecule is based on technology that was used to inhibit the function of the surface peak protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. By targeting this blocking effect of TriSb92 at the peak protein site of the coronavirus, the ability of all known variants of the virus to cause infection can be effectively prevented.

It was noted that TriSb92 was able to prevent the spread of the SARS virus. This led scientists to believe that future variants of SARS-CoV-2 and new coronaviruses that could grow into a pandemic will also be sensitive to the new molecule. Thus, a nasal drug in the future may act as a biological protection of mucous membranes from coronavirus infection.

According to scientists, TriSb92 is not a competition for vaccines, but an additional technology, since there is a great need in the world for new ways to increase protection against disease.

The research preprint has been published on Research Square.

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