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In a recent study published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, researchers have uncovered that certain types of wood may harbor natural antiviral properties, potentially reducing the risk of viral transmission via contaminated surfaces.
The study, led by Varpu Marjomäki and colleagues, explored the antiviral capabilities of six different wood species: Scots pine, silver birch, gray alder, eucalyptus, pedunculate oak, and Norway spruce. These woods were investigated for their ability to inactivate both enveloped viruses like the coronavirus responsible for COVID-19, and nonenveloped viruses such as those causing the common cold.
Enveloped viruses can persist on surfaces for up to five days, posing a significant transmission risk. Nonenveloped viruses, known for their resilience, can survive for even longer periods. Household disinfectants are commonly used to mitigate these risks, but the study suggests that certain types of wood could naturally reduce viral infectivity without chemical intervention.
Key Findings:
- Effectiveness Across Wood Types:
- Pine, spruce, birch, and alder showed significant antiviral activity against enveloped viruses within one to two hours of exposure.
- Pine exhibited rapid onset of antiviral activity, beginning within five minutes of exposure.
- Oak and eucalyptus required slightly longer exposure times, showing effective viral reduction after two hours.
- Antiviral Mechanisms:
- The researchers attribute wood’s antiviral properties to its chemical composition, which varies by species. These compositions likely interact differently with viral particles, leading to varied efficacy in viral inactivation.
- Implications for Public Health:
- If further validated, these findings could suggest a role for wooden surfaces in reducing viral transmission in public spaces, homes, and healthcare settings.
- Wood’s natural antiviral properties could offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials and chemical disinfectants.
Future Research Directions:
The study underscores the need for continued research into the specific chemical mechanisms responsible for wood’s antiviral effects. Understanding these mechanisms could pave the way for developing wood-based materials tailored for enhanced antiviral activity.
Conclusion:
The findings highlight wood as a potential sustainable and natural solution for reducing viral transmission on surfaces. Further exploration into optimizing wood’s antiviral properties could lead to innovative applications in public health and beyond.
The research was supported by funding from the Research Council of Finland and the Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation, underscoring the importance of continued investment in exploring natural materials for combating infectious diseases.
This study not only contributes to our understanding of wood’s properties but also opens new avenues for harnessing natural materials in the ongoing battle against viral infections.
