As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, scientists are not just working on vaccines and treatments but also on preventive measures that could be simpler yet effective. Imagine a world where a spritz of a nasal spray could help you fight the virus? That notion isn’t just wishful thinking; it’s grounded in intensive research into the anatomy of our respiratory system. Scientists have identified the ports of entry that SARS-CoV-2 exploits to initiate an infection. Once these entry points are known, it becomes possible to develop targeted interventions, specifically targeting the nose. Such a preventive measure could be revolutionary. And not only in combating COVID-19, but also in preparing us for future pandemics of respiratory viruses. 

Detailing more on this exciting frontier is Dr. Radwa Emad Ewaisha, Assistant Professor of Microbiology and Immunology at the Faculty of Pharmacy at Alexandria University. 

She has been teaching and conducting research there since January 2019. She earned her Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Biology from Arizona State University. Additionally, she also obtained a Master’s there in the same field. Dr. Ewaisha also completed a Clinical Chemistry Post-PhD Fellowship at the prestigious Mayo Clinic School of Medicine. Prior to her doctorate, she earned a Master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences focusing on Pharmaceutical Microbiology from Alexandria University.

Upon conclusion of recent research exploring nose cells, she added that the development of a nasal solution as a shield against viral infections could be a preventative measure for other possible viral infections. Dr. Ewaisha also stated that this nasal cell research will be groundbreaking for the pharmaceutical industry. 

Dr. Ewaisha’s Thoughts on a Nasal Spray Solution

“These researchers studied cells that line the nose and airway, and they studied the microstructures that are found on these cells, such as cilia and microvilli. They were then able to identify the specific ports of entry in our noses that SARS-CoV-2 uses to start an infection. This means that, in theory, a prophylactic nasal spray can be developed, especially one that can be used following a suspected exposure to the virus, and this has very important implications not only for COVID, but potentially for future pandemics as well. 

“This study has identified targets in these cells that, when inhibited, this can actually prevent respiratory viruses from establishing a stronghold in our nose or throat and spreading the infection to neighboring cells. These targets provide new avenues for pharmaceutical companies to develop and market a prophylactic nasal spray that can abort the infection.”