An experimental nasal spray, called Pathogen Capture and Neutralizing Spray (PCANS), has shown promising results in preclinical studies for preventing the spread of respiratory viruses, including influenza and SARS-CoV-2. Developed by researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, the spray utilizes medically inactive ingredients to trap and neutralize germs in the nasal cavity, potentially offering a new approach to combatting respiratory infections. The findings, published in Advanced Materials, suggest PCANS could offer a broad-spectrum defense against various airborne pathogens.
How PCANS Works
PCANS is designed to capture, immobilize, and neutralize respiratory pathogens before they can cause infection. According to Nitin Joshi, assistant professor of anesthesiology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, the spray "forms a gel-like matrix that traps respiratory droplets, immobilizes the germs, and effectively neutralizes them, preventing infection." The formulation is composed of ingredients already approved for use in nasal sprays by the FDA or considered Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS).
Preclinical Efficacy
In vitro experiments using a 3D-printed replica of the human nose demonstrated that PCANS captured twice as many respiratory droplets compared to natural mucus. Furthermore, the spray blocked and neutralized nearly 100% of viruses and bacteria tested, including influenza, SARS-CoV-2, RSV, adenovirus, and K. pneumoniae.
Animal studies in mice further supported the efficacy of PCANS. A single dose of the spray provided complete protection against a 25-fold lethal dose of influenza virus. Yohannes Tesfaigzi, professor of respiratory and inflammatory diseases at Brigham and Women’s, noted, "In a rigorous mouse model study, prophylactic treatment with PCANS demonstrated exceptional efficacy, with treated mice exhibiting complete protection, while the untreated group showed no such benefit."
Implications and Future Directions
The development of PCANS represents a potential advancement in preventing respiratory infections. Jeffrey Karp, distinguished chair in anesthesiology at Brigham and Women’s, emphasized the ongoing threat of respiratory pathogens, stating, "The COVID pandemic showed us what respiratory pathogens can do to humanity in a very short time. That threat hasn’t gone away. Not only do we have the flu to deal with seasonally, but we now have COVID, too." The spray's ability to neutralize a broad spectrum of pathogens could make it a valuable tool in reducing the transmission of respiratory diseases.
While these preclinical results are promising, human clinical trials are necessary to confirm the safety and efficacy of PCANS in people. The researchers are also exploring the potential of PCANS for allergy relief by blocking allergens in the nasal cavity.
