Complex formation of potassium salt of highly fatty acid with hemagglutinin protein in influenza virus via exothermic interaction.

In our previous study, we found highly fatty acid salts, which are a skin-friendly soaps, had a high ability to inactivate the influenza virus. In order to elucidate the mechanism of inactivation of influenza virus, we investigated interactions and complex formation of potassium tetradecanoate (C14K) as a highly fatty acid salt with a virus particle (VP) derived from avian influenza virus by using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). ITC showed C14K attractively interacted with hemagglutinin protein (HA) which exists in the envelop of VP.

Inactivation of human and avian influenza viruses by potassium oleate of natural soap component through exothermic interaction.

An influenza epidemic is still a problem despite the development of vaccines and anti-influenza drugs. Preventive measures such as handwashing are fundamental and important for counteracting influenza virus infection. In this study, we clarified the anti-influenza virus effects of surfactants, which are the main components of hand soaps for hand washing: potassium oleate (C18:1), sodium laureth sulfate (LES) and sodium lauryl sulfate (SDS).