Viral respiratory infections are common, and while most people recover from them without treatment, they can sometimes lead to severe disease. Existing treatments focus on preventing existing infections from progressing, but a new study suggests a different approach. Researchers found that a common antibiotic, neomycin, boosted the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 and influenza in rodents, preventing severe disease and death. They propose that neomycin could be a cheap and effective way to prevent and treat viral respiratory infections in humans, especially in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
With the COVID-19 pandemic highlighting the importance of preventing and treating viral respiratory infections, researchers from Yale conducted a study that found neomycin, when applied inside the nose, activated a strong immune response in mice and hamsters. This immune response protected against infection with both SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A, showing promising results for potential human application. A small group of healthy people treated with a common nasal ointment containing neomycin also exhibited a similar immune response, further supporting the potential benefits of this antibiotic in preventing severe respiratory infections.
Antibiotics are typically used to treat bacterial infections, but the researchers in this study explored the potential of neomycin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, in preventing viral respiratory infections. Through intranasal application of neomycin, the researchers found increased levels of interferon-stimulated gene expression in mice, which is crucial in the immune response against viruses. Subsequent tests on transgenic mice infected with SARS-CoV-2 and hamsters exposed to the virus also showed promising results, with neomycin-treated animals displaying greater resistance to infection compared to controls.
However, while the study results are encouraging, experts caution that findings in rodents may not directly translate to humans. Further research is needed to validate the effectiveness and safety of neomycin as a preventive measure against severe respiratory infections. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the potential development of antibiotic resistance with prolonged use of neomycin and the compliance of individuals with long-term application of the antibiotic ointment to the nasal mucous membranes. Hence, more robust clinical trials are necessary to determine the true efficacy and safety of neomycin in this context before it can be considered for widespread clinical use.
Despite the potential challenges associated with using neomycin as an immune-stimulating treatment for viral respiratory infections, the study findings present a novel approach that warrants further investigation. By focusing on stimulating the innate immune response rather than targeting the virus directly with antivirals, researchers hope to provide a more effective and sustainable solution to combating respiratory infections. The affordability and accessibility of neomycin, combined with its demonstrated ability to boost immune responses, make it an appealing candidate for future studies aimed at developing innovative treatment strategies for viral respiratory infections.
The next steps towards translating the findings of this study into practical clinical applications involve conducting larger, prospective, double-blind trials in human subjects to assess the efficacy and safety of neomycin and similar antibiotics in preventing severe respiratory infections. These trials will provide valuable insights into the feasibility of using neomycin as a preventive measure on a population-wide scale, as well as help address concerns related to antibiotic resistance and prolonged application. Overall, the study offers a promising foundation for further research into leveraging antibiotics to stimulate the immune system and enhance protection against viral respiratory infections.
