Unlike the previously known interferons of the first and second types, the new option moves locally – mainly in the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. This reduces the risk of characteristic systemic side effects of traditional drugs.
Experiments on cell cultures have shown the activity of a substance against influenza, coronavirus and chikungunene viruses. More work on mice showed that preventive administration of the drug prevents the spread of the virus to the lungs, reduces weight loss and reduces mortality.
Especially important is the ability of interferon-lambda to prevent secondary bacterial infections-the reason for frequent complications for in-influenza. As SPBPU Associate Professor Aleksey Lozhkov pointed out, such infections became the main cause of high mortality during Spanish pandemia in 1918-1920.
Scientists plan to develop a dosage form in the form of nasal spray or drops. Such a drug can be used both in the early stages of the disease after contacting the patient and in the first symptoms.
Source: Ferra
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