Targeting host-virus interactions: in silico analysis of the binding of human milk oligosaccharides to viral proteins involved in respiratory infections.

Respiratory viral infections, a major public health concern, necessitate continuous development of novel antiviral strategies, particularly in the face of emerging and re-emerging pathogens. In this study, we explored the potential of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) as broad-spectrum antiviral agents against key respiratory viruses. By examining the structural mimicry of host cell receptors and their known biological functions, including antiviral activities, we assessed the ability of HMOs to bind and potentially inhibit viral proteins crucial for host cell entry.

Ayurvedic formulations: Potential COVID-19 therapeutics?

Background: While Molnupiravir and Paxlovid have recently been approved for use in some countries, there are no widely available treatments for COVID-19, the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection. Herbal extracts have been used to treat respiratory clinical indications by Ayurvedic medicine practitioners with minimal adverse reactions and intense research efforts are currently under way to develop some of these formulations for COVID-19 treatment.

Methods: Literature search for and clinical studies on the topic of Ayurvedic formulations for potential COVID-19 treatment, in order to present the current state of current knowledge by integrating information across all systems.

Isolation of a novel poly--glutamic acid-producing A14 strain and optimization of fermentation conditions for high-level production.

In the present study, bacteria producing poly--glutamic acid were isolated from marine sands, and an efficient producer identified. -PGA was rapidly screened by thin-layer chromatography and UV spectrophotometer assay. Media optimization was carried out, and for the cost-effective production of -PGA, monosodium glutamate was used as the substrate for the synthesis of -PGA instead of glutamic acid.