Protein-Based Face Mask with High SARS-CoV-2 Neutralization Ability and Breathability

Abstract

<p>Current intramuscular vaccines cannot effectively prevent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission and infection in nasal epithelium. Although face masks represent an additional preventive measure against SARS-CoV-2, their low breathability hinders wearing compliance. Herein, the development of SuperNeut, a protein-based breathable high-efficiency face mask, is reported. The mask contains KP-LCB1, a fusion protein that can capture SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins on one end and attach to keratin fibres on the other. The meltblown fabric is replaced by a thin electrospun keratin layer that allows uniform adhesion of KP-LCB1, which serves as an effective barrier to filter incoming viruses, while substantially improving breathability. The studies demonstrate that the fusion protein is stable and can efficiently neutralise multiple SARS-CoV-2 wildtype (WT), Alpha (B.1.1.7), Delta (B.1.617.2), and Omicron (B.1.1.529). The breathability of SuperNeut mask compared to commercial surgical masks is also quantified. Importantly, it is shown that SuperNeut Mask is able to effectively prevent SARS-CoV-2 Delta transmission in Syrian hamster model. Overall, the highly breathable SuperNeut mask can efficiently prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission. This design serves as a proof-of-concept that face mask designs can be improved with biological components. The neutralising proteins in this mask can be altered to combat future respiratory disease outbreaks.</p>