Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Dental Medicine have developed chewing gum made from lablab beans that neutralizes influenza and herpes simplex virus transmission. The study, published in Molecular Therapy, shows promise for a new tool to mitigate infection spread through the oral cavity.
The researchers tested a clinical-grade version of the gum, releasing an antiviral protein called FRIL at sites where viruses spread most efficiently – in the mouth. Lablab beans contain natural FRIL protein that binds and neutralizes viral particles. Within 15 minutes of chewing, over 50% of the protein was released.
The researchers demonstrated that just 40 mg of gum was enough to reduce viral loads by over 95%. The formula adheres to clinical-grade standards for safety, and stability testing showed the FRIL protein remains stable in lablab bean powder and chewing gum. This could provide an affordable alternative to existing antiviral treatments, especially during peak infection seasons.
The public health implications are significant, as influenza and herpes infections cause widespread illness. Further research is planned to advance the gum into clinical trials and explore its use against avian influenza.
Source: https://www.insideprecisionmedicine.com/topics/patient-care/antiviral-chewing-gum-may-prevent-flu-and-herpes-transmission