An overview of functional nanoparticles as novel emerging antiviral therapeutic agents

Abstract

Research on highly effective antiviral drugs is essential for preventing the spread of infections and reducing losses. Recently, many functional nanoparticles have been shown to possess remarkable antiviral ability, such as quantum dots, gold and silver nanoparticles, nanoclusters, carbon dots, graphene oxide, silicon materials, polymers and dendrimers. Despite their difference in antiviral mechanism and inhibition efficacy, these functional nanoparticles-based structures have unique features as potential antiviral candidates. In this topical review, we highlight the antiviral efficacy and mechanism of these nanoparticles. Specifically, we introduce various methods for analyzing the viricidal activity of functional nanoparticles and the latest advances in antiviral functional nanoparticles. Furthermore, we systematically describe the advantages and disadvantages of these functional nanoparticles in viricidal applications. Finally, we discuss the challenges and prospects of antiviral nanostructures. This topic review covers 132 papers and will enrich our knowledge about the antiviral efficacy and mechanism of various functional nanoparticles.

How can nanotechnology help to combat COVID-19? Opportunities and urgent need

“…Viruses are simple biological structures, size in the nanometre range (in the case of SARS-CoV-2, the size ranges from 60 to 140 nm) [104] and intracellular life cycle, often making their detection difficult, as they are difficult to be isolated and cannot be observed by ordinary optical microscopes [105,106]. As with other viral infections, SARS-CoV-2 requires rapid response tests [64], with operational simplicity and better detection limits [107].…”

Quantum dots as a promising agent to combat COVID‐19

“…[23] Furthermore, cationic surface charges exhibited by QDs interact with the negative RNA strand of the virus, leading to the production of reactive oxygen species within SARS-CoV-2. [24,25] Du et al demonstrated the antiviral effect of carbon dots (CDs) against pseudorabies virus and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus. [26] CDs induce the activation of interferonstimulated genes, particularly interferon-α production, which suppresses viral replication.…”

Nano-based antiviral coatings to combat viral infections

“…However, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have attracted ever-increasing attention due to its multifaceted mode of antimicrobial activity leading to unprecedented biomedical significance [60] . Fig.…”