What is it about?

This review summarizes recent advances in nanoscale technologies and computational tools developed to address SARS‑CoV‑2. The first part examines innovative nanomaterials with potential antiviral applications, including nanosystems designed to capture or inactivate the virus, materials for inhalation‑based drug delivery, and antiviral textiles or coatings aimed at reducing viral spread. The second part discusses how computer‑aided methods—such as molecular docking and molecular dynamics—are used to rapidly identify plant‑derived molecules, particularly terpenoids, capable of interacting with pathways relevant to SARS‑CoV‑2 cell entry. These in silico tools accelerate the screening of candidate compounds and support the design of antiviral nanomaterials.

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Why is it important?

The COVID‑19 pandemic highlighted the need for rapid, adaptable therapeutic and preventive strategies. Nanomaterials can offer localized antiviral effects, enhanced drug delivery to the respiratory tract, and virus‑binding structures (e.g., nanodecoys) that may help neutralize diverse viral variants. Computer‑aided identification of plant‑derived compounds provides a complementary route, enabling rapid screening of natural molecules that could interfere with viral entry mechanisms. Together, these approaches broaden the toolbox for antiviral discovery, especially when rapid responses are required during global health emergencies.

Perspectives

Although promising, many nanomaterials discussed in the review have been tested mainly in vitro or through in silico modeling. Translation to clinical or industrial settings faces challenges related to reproducibility, scale‑up, quality control, safety, and cost. Additional limitations include the need for biosafety level‑3 facilities, reliance on SARS‑CoV‑2 pseudotyped systems, and limited small‑animal models. Future studies must address nanomaterial toxicology, biodistribution, environmental impact, and long‑term safety, particularly for inhalation‑based systems. Integrating computational screening with more advanced biological models may help refine both natural and nano‑enabled antiviral strategies.

Prof. Antonio Speciale
University of Messina

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: Nanoscale Technologies in the Fight against COVID-19: From Innovative Nanomaterials to Computer-Aided Discovery of Potential Antiviral Plant-Derived Drugs, Biomolecules, July 2022, MDPI AG,
DOI: 10.3390/biom12081060.
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