Lignin-Based Mucus-Mimicking Antiviral Hydrogels with Enzyme Stability and Tunable Porosity.

ABSTRACT: Mucus is a complex hydrogel that acts as a defensive and protective barrier in various parts of the human body. The rise in the level of viral infections has underscored the importance of advancing research into mucus-mimicking hydrogels for the efficient design of antiviral agents. Herein, we demonstrate the gram-scale synthesis of biocompatible, lignin-based virus-binding inhibitors that reduce waste and ensure long-term availability. The lignin-based inhibitors are equipped with sulfate moieties, which are known binding partners for many viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 and herpes viruses. In addition, cross-linking the synthesized inhibitors yielded hydrogels that mimicked native mucus concerning surface functionality and rheology. The degree of sulfation exhibits a very strong impact on

SUBMITTER: Chandna S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11826508 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature