A team of researchers at the University of Southampton have uncovered new details about how to use ultraviolet light to destroy the viral particles that cause COVID-19 disease, particular particles that can cause contamination of various surfaces. The team’s work is described in a recent article published in ACS Photonics.
When the COVID-19 pandemic was in full swing, many wondered about how the viral particles contaminated -or didn't contaminate- surfaces and, more specifically, how to disinfect them to prevent the spread of the disease. Some of speculated that ultraviolet light could be a way to decontaminate surfaces from SARS-CoV-2 viruses. As a matter of fact, it has been shown in the past that UV light can be a powerful way of destroying bacteria and a range of viruses. But the question is: can it work for the virus causing COVID-19?
Part of determining the effectiveness of ultraviolet light has to do with how well it can break down two key components of the virus, both of which are needed in order for the virus to promote infection. These two components include a collection of nucleic acid chains that form the core of the virus: this is the genetic information the virus transfers to host cells. There is also a lipid membrane surrounding this core. Because both are needed for a virus to work, damage to one or both would render the virus moot.
Researchers exposed viruses to UVC light, a type of ultraviolet light that rarely reaches the Earth’s surface from the sun. This type of light is easily absorbed by the viruses, so the researchers used a specialized laser to emit just the right wavelength. When exposed to this wavelength, they found the protein shell around the viral core was unable to bind to human cells, rendering them ineffective.
The team’s work has a range of implications, but importantly, could be used in surgical settings for more thorough decontamination of the surgical field and the operating room, improving patient safety and outcomes.
Sources: Science Daily; ACS Photonics
