#Herpes

A groundbreaking new scientific discovery may pave the way for a “one-for-all” treatment capable of tackling some of the world’s most persistent incurable viral diseases, including HIV, Zika, herpes, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (notebookcheck.net). Announced this week by an international team of researchers, the study details how a new class of compounds can supercharge the body’s natural defenses, enabling cells to resist a wide range of viruses — a potential game changer eagerly followed by the global health community and holding special promise for Thailand, where several of those diseases remain public health concerns.

A new class of antiviral compounds aims to empower the body’s own defenses to fight a broad range of viruses. By amplifying the integrated stress response inside cells, these treatments could slow viral replication and move the world closer to a universal antiviral therapy. An international team reports promising findings that could help reduce the burden on Thailand’s health system.

Thailand’s public health landscape could benefit as human trials progress. HIV remains a major challenge, while Zika and herpes infections continue to pose concerns. RSV is a leading cause of serious respiratory illness in infants and older adults. Most current antivirals target specific viruses, and several infections still lack curative options. A universal antiviral would streamline treatment, cut costs, and improve patient outcomes across the country.

Researchers from a major U.S. university have unveiled an antiviral chewing gum designed to help reduce the spread of common viruses, including influenza and herpes simplex. The approach, described in a study published in Molecular Therapy, builds on earlier work showing the gum can lower viral loads in the mouth.

The gum uses ingredients from lablab beans, specifically a protein called FRIL, which can trap and neutralize viruses in the oral cavity. The study’s lead author, a professor from a dental school, says the formulation has the potential to reduce oral viral loads by a substantial margin, echoing prior results against SARS-CoV-2 detected in saliva. This points to a broader use for oral-transmitted viruses.

In an exciting development from the University of Pennsylvania, researchers have introduced an innovative means to combat the spread of common viral infections through the use of antiviral chewing gum. Responding to the global challenge posed by infectious diseases highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers have focused on reducing transmission rates of influenza and herpes simplex viruses, which remain prevalent around the world. This approach is highlighted in a study published in Molecular Therapy.