Exploring Nanoparticle-Based Antivirals for a Virus-Free Future

Dear Colleagues,

Much progress has been made in the preparation and use of engineered nanomaterials in the field of medicine, mainly for antibacterial and antiviral applications. The highly successful lipid nanoparticle (LNP)‐based RNA vaccines for COVID‐19 are the best examples of nanotechnology use in infection prophylaxis. General antiviral mechanisms of nanoscale interventions should include the following: (a) the inactivation of the virus through direct binding, complex bond formation and electrostatic interaction; (b) blocking host receptors such as heparan sulfate (HS) and sialic acid (SA); (c) the nanoparticle delivery of antivirals against viruses; and (d) blocking intracellular virus replication. Several nanomaterials such as metal nanoparticles (mostly Au- and Ag-based ones) have exhibited natural virucidal effects based on their specific physiochemical properties. Furthermore, nanoparticles can stimulate innate immune response due to their similarity to naturally existing pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) recognized by Toll-like receptors (TLRs) present on immune cells such as antigen antigen-presenting cells (APCs) and others such as neutrophils, mast cells, and NK cells. Additionally, nanoparticles can protect, stabilize, and present foreign particles (antigens) to APCs such as macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), and B cells. Metal nanoparticles have shown the ability to act as adjuvants by modulating the immunogenicity of the antigen through various mechanisms. Considering drug resistance to traditional therapies and the appearance of new/re-emerging viral pathogens, the development of versatile nanomaterials with potent antiviral and immunomodulatory effects is under intensive investigation. For this Topic, we welcome the submission of original research papers and review articles spanning the entire spectrum of nanoparticle-based antivirals from both virus and host perspectives. We also encourage the submission of articles that present strategies for future antiviral development considering the complexity of host–virus interactions and the usefulness of existing treatments targeting the induction of virus-specific response.

Prof. Dr. Malgorzata Krzyzowska
Dr. Marcin Chodkowski
Topic Editors