Chewing Gum May Help Reduce Transmission of SARS-CoV-2

New research out of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine has found that a chewing gum containing the plant protein angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) may help “trap” the novel coronavirus, preventing it from transmitting via saliva. Published in Molecular Therapy, the study found that the receptor for ACE2 within cells also binds to SARS-CoV-2. This binding hinders the ability of SARS-CoV-2 to replicate in the salivary glands. The gum may provide a cost-effective and efficacious way to reduce the transmissibility of COVID-19. A clinical trial is now in development. Researchers are also investigating the role of the ACE2 protein in inhibiting plaque biofilm. Click here to read more.