Antiviral polysaccharide and antiviral peptide delivering nanomaterials for prevention and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 caused COVID-19 and other viral diseases

Antiviral peptides and antiviral polysaccharides can play a major role in the prevention and treatment of emerging viral health problems. These antiviral compounds are biocompatible, environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and cost-effective, yet are poorly water soluble and vulnerable to enzymatic (protease) degradation within the aggressive intercellular microenvironment. Therefore, they should be properly protected and deliv-ered to viruses and host cells by the well-designed nanocarriers that mimic viruses in terms of size, morphology, and smart function. This literature review is meant to introduce the latest advances (mainly within the past five years) in antiviral nano-assemblies comprising antiviral peptides or antiviral polysaccharides. To the best of our knowledge, there is no similar study in the literature that has solely and sufficiently investigated such antiviral nanomaterials partially or totally derived from nature. The rational classification of microorganism-, plant-, and animal-derived antiviral polysaccharide and antiviral peptide delivering nanomaterials and exploration of their relevant applications will clarify the promising capacity of these state-of-the-art materials for a number of technologies developed to inactivate viruses.

Automated summary

Antiviral peptides and polysaccharides have great potential in preventing and treating emerging viral health problems. However, their poor water solubility and vulnerability to enzymatic degradation pose challenges. Nanocarriers that mimic viruses in terms of size, morphology, and function can effectively protect and deliver these compounds. This literature review presents the latest advances in antiviral nano-assemblies derived from natural sources, providing valuable insights into their applications in virus inactivation technologies.