Can ketone bodies inactivate coronavirus spike protein? The potential of biocidal agents against SARS-CoV-2

Biocidal agents such as formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde are able to inactivate several coronaviruses including SARS-CoV-2. In this article, an insight into one mechanism for the inactivation of these viruses by those two agents is presented, based on analysis of previous observations during electron microscopic examination of several members of the orthocoronavirinae subfamily, including the new virus SARS-CoV-2. This inactivation is proposed to occur through Schiff base reaction-induced conformational changes in the spike glycoprotein leading to its disruption or breakage, which can prevent binding of the virus to cellular receptors. Also, a new prophylactic and therapeutic measure against SARS-CoV-2 using acetoacetate is proposed, suggesting that it could similarly break the viral spike through Schiff base reaction with lysines of the spike protein. This measure needs to be confirmed experimentally before consideration. In addition, a new line of research is proposed to help find a broad-spectrum antivirus against several members of this subfamily.

Automated summary

Biocidal agents such as formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde can inactivate various coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2. The mechanism of inactivation involves inducing conformational changes in the spike glycoprotein through Schiff base reactions, preventing the virus from binding to cellular receptors. Additionally, a potential prophylactic and therapeutic measure using acetoacetate against SARS-CoV-2 is proposed, pending experimental confirmation, along with further research to find a broad-spectrum antivirus against multiple members of the orthocoronavirinae subfamily.