A new study conducted by scientists from the University of Pennsylvania has revealed a pleasant surprise: chewing gum containing the enzyme angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) could reduce COVID-19 infections. The researchers stated in their recently published study in the journal "Molecular Therapy" that the gum, coated with a plant protein, acts as a "trap" for the virus; thereby reducing the viral load in saliva and potentially limiting the transmission of the infection.
The study leader, Henry Daniel from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, explained that the coronavirus replicates in the salivary glands, and when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or talks, some of the virus is released and reaches others. “This gum provides a chance to neutralize the virus in saliva, giving us a simple method to reduce the source of disease transmission.”
### Reducing Infection
During the testing of the gum, the team developed the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in plants, coupled with another compound that facilitates the protein's passage through mucosal barriers and enhances binding. The resulting plant material was then incorporated into cinnamon-flavored chewing gum. Samples obtained from nasopharyngeal swabs of COVID-19 patients combined with gum showed that the current protein could neutralize the virus.
As research progressed, the scientists observed that the gum significantly prevented viruses or viral particles from entering cells, either by blocking ACE2 receptors on the cells or by directly binding to the coronavirus spike protein. The researchers noted that the gum helped to significantly reduce viral RNA levels to the point of near undetectability.
The research team is currently seeking permission to conduct a clinical trial to assess whether this method is safe and effective when tested on individuals infected with the coronavirus, particularly as it is simple and inexpensive. Daniel stated, “Although the research is still in its early stages, if clinical trials prove that the gum is safe, it could be given to patients whose infection status is unknown, or to individuals undergoing dental examinations when masks must be removed to minimize the likelihood of virus transmission to care providers.” He added, “We are already using face masks and other barriers to reduce the chance of transmission, and now this gum can be used as an additional tool in the battle against the virus.”
