Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 5: In a breakthrough that could reshape how we prevent viral infections, scientists from the University of Pennsylvania have created an antiviral chewing gum that shows remarkable promise in slashing the viral load of herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2) and influenza A strains H1N1 and H3N2.
This novel approach comes at a time when seasonal flu continues to burden global health and herpes infections remain widespread, with HSV-1 alone affecting over two-thirds of the world's population. Limited vaccination coverage for influenza and the absence of a herpes vaccine highlight the need for alternative prevention tools.
Instead of focusing on the nasal route—traditionally associated with respiratory infections—researchers turned their attention to the oral cavity, recognizing it as a key point of viral transmission. Their solution? A chewing gum infused with a natural antiviral protein called FRIL, derived from Lablab purpureus, commonly known as the lablab bean.
Published in the journal Molecular Therapy, the study demonstrated that the gum delivers FRIL directly to infection sites in the mouth, neutralizing viruses effectively. Just 40 milligrams of FRIL in a 2-gram gum tablet was found to reduce viral load by over 95% in experimental models.
The gum has been developed to meet US FDA drug standards, and early tests confirm it is safe for human use, paving the way for upcoming clinical trials.
“This is a promising step forward,” said Professor Henry Daniell of Penn’s School of Dental Medicine, who led the study. “The ability to use a natural plant-based product like bean powder to trap and neutralize multiple viruses opens up exciting avenues for global health.”
The research team is also eyeing the gum’s potential in the fight against avian influenza, which is currently spreading in North America. With bird flu posing serious threats to both humans and livestock, the broad-spectrum efficacy of FRIL could be a game-changer.
“In the face of frequent viral outbreaks, especially with limited vaccine coverage, we need new weapons,” Daniell added. “A chewing gum that could help stop both human and avian flu viruses from spreading is a timely innovation.”
If successful in human trials, the antiviral gum could emerge as a low-cost, easy-to-use preventive tool for widespread use — from hospitals and schools to international travel and outbreak zones.