EP4132478A1 — Mimetic nanoparticles for preventing the spreading and lowering the infection rate of novel coronaviruses

USPTO Abstract

The present technology provides a method for minimizing the spread of novel coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV-2, which is the causative agent for the global COVID-19 pandemic, by tailored nanomaterials that mimics the infectious agent thus blocking the virus entry to the host by competitive inhibition of target receptors lowering the risk of contracting the COVID-19 disease. According to the invention, a synthetic carrier is provided for use in a method of preventing and reducing SARS-CoV-2 binding to target areas of cell surfaces such as ACE2 receptors of the host organism. The carrier comprises biocompatible particles having a maximum size in at least one dimension in the nanometer or micrometer range, forming a core, and further having a functionalized surface capable of binding to said target areas of said cell surfaces to at least temporarily block said target areas to prevent or minimize pathogen binding and thus, reducing the risk of the host contracting the disease caused by said virus. The nanocarrier can be loaded with active pharmaceutical ingredients e.g. Celastrol, Zinc and Interferon-Gamma modulators for targeted drug delivery by boosting the immune system and/or creating a hostile environment for viral replication lowering the risk of spreading the disease to other organisms.