Scientists from the University of Pennsylvania have developed a chewing gum containing the natural antiviral protein FRIL from Australian chickpea. The studies showed that just 40 mg of the substance reduces the number of viruses in the oral cavity by 95% or more.
The chewing gum was found to be effective against herpes viruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2) and influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2).
Project lead professor Henry Daniel noted that viruses are often transmitted through the mouth, and this finding may change the approach to prevention. The development is especially relevant amid annual flu epidemics, which cause significant economic and social damage.
The researchers are also considering using FRIL to fight avian influenza. Because of its ease of use and high effectiveness, the chewing gum could become a new convenient tool for protection against common viruses, available to everyone.
