Medizinische Universität Graz Austria/Österreich - Forschungsportal - Medical University of Graz
Gewählte Publikation:
Wolfgruber, S.
Physical/chemical methods for SARS-CoV-2 inactivation
Doktoratsstudium der Medizinischen Wissenschaft; Humanmedizin; [ Dissertation ] Medizinische Universität Graz; 2025. pp. 91
[OPEN ACCESS]
FullText
- Autor*innen der Med Uni Graz:
- Betreuer*innen:
- Abuja Peter Michael
- Gorkiewicz Gregor
- Zatloukal Kurt
- Altmetrics:
- Abstract:
- The rapid transmission of the new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) during the COVID-19 pandemic, through respiratory droplets, aerosols and contaminated surfaces highlighted the need for efficient and safe inactivation as well as decontamination methods for personal protective equipment (PPE) and surfaces. Conventional approaches, such as ultraviolet radiation, heat, and liquid chemical treatments, can either damage materials or lack comprehensive disinfection efficacy. Consequently, material-friendly and sustainable alternatives are demanded. The use of nanomaterials is a promising approach since their antiviral properties are well-established. In this study, two novel zinc oxide nanoparticles (NP) (ZnO-NP-45 and ZnO-NP-76) were investigated for their antiviral activity and mechanisms against the SARS-CoV-2 Delta and Omicron variants. These NPs are of great interest because of their environmentally friendly and efficient synthesis process. Virus neutralization assays in cell-culture using human lung epithelial cells (Calu-3) showed that ZnO-NP-45 exhibited a strong virus inactivation by a factor of 106 at a concentration of 20 mg/mL for both virus variants. In contrast, ZnO-NP-76, demonstrated inconsistent antiviral effects with the Delta and Omicron variant. To investigate the mechanisms behind these differences in antiviral activity, the particles were characterized by their size distribution and surface charge. ZnO-NP-45 was found to be polydisperse, with particles ranging from 30 nm to 60 nm, while ZnO-NP-76 was less polydisperse, with particles ranging from 60 to 92 nm. To further investigate the antiviral mechanisms of the NPs, their production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was investigated in vitro, both in the dark and under constant light exposure at 4200 lux. Exposure to light led to increased hydrogen peroxide levels, especially for ZnO-NP-45, while the other NPs showed no significant increase in ROS production. This observed effect could contribute to the inactivation of viruses, which makes it particularly interesting for applications such as surface coatings. The findings of this study demonstrate strong antiviral activity of ZnO-NPs against SARS-CoV-2, positioning them as potential antiviral agents. Possible applications of ZnO-NP include the antiviral coating of filters or PPE to improve the protection of users in the healthcare sector as well as in public settings.