Antimicrobial Respiratory Compositions for Airborne Pathogen Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of effective methods to protect against airborne pathogens, allergens, and irritants, particularly human rhinovirus and human influenza virus, which can enter the respiratory tract and cause infections or allergic reactions.
Innovation Solution
Compositions comprising antimicrobial and antiviral agents, such as lactoferrin, lysozyme, soluble ICAM-1, sialic acid, and neuraminidase inhibitors, are formulated in a suitable carrier to be applied as nasal sprays, oral sprays, or lozenges, enhancing the epithelial membranes' filtering capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional methods are used to protect against airborne pathogens, then there is no effective protection, but the need for new compositions and methods creates a gap in healthcare solutions
Solution Approach 1:
The composition is applied to the respiratory tract mucosa before pathogen exposure to establish a protective barrier. The antiviral and antimicrobial agents are pre-positioned on the epithelial surfaces to neutralize pathogens upon contact, preventing infection before it can establish
Solution Approach 2:
The composition acts as an intermediary barrier between airborne pathogens and the respiratory tract mucosa. The antiviral and antimicrobial agents in the composition intercept and neutralize pathogens, preventing direct contact with and infection of the epithelial cells
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the respiratory tract is exposed to airborne pathogens, then infection risk increases, but without effective protective measures
Solution Approach 1:
The composition applies preliminary anti-action by coating the respiratory tract mucosa with antiviral and antimicrobial agents before pathogen exposure. These agents are positioned to immediately counteract and neutralize pathogens upon contact, preventing viral attachment and bacterial invasion of epithelial cells
Solution Approach 2:
The composition changes the chemical and biological parameters of the respiratory tract surface by introducing antiviral and antimicrobial agents. This modifies the surface properties to create an environment that is hostile to pathogen survival and attachment, effectively neutralizing harmful factors
3Reliability
If mucous membranes are used to filter pathogens, then natural filtering occurs, but the filtering capability is insufficient against airborne pathogens
Solution Approach 1:
The composition creates a composite protective layer on the mucous membranes by combining natural mucosal surfaces with antiviral and antimicrobial agents. This composite structure enhances the filtering capability beyond natural defenses, creating multiple barriers that pathogens must overcome
Solution Approach 2:
The composition enhances the local quality of specific regions of the respiratory tract by concentrating antiviral and antimicrobial agents at the mucosal surfaces. This creates zones of enhanced protection where the filtering capability is significantly improved compared to untreated areas
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure features methods and compositions for enhancing the ability of the respiratory membranes to filter airborne pathogens and protect a subject from respiratory infections that result from inhalation or ingestion of such pathogens. In particular, the disclosure provides antimicrobial compositions that prevent and treat respiratory infections caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses.