ACE2 proteins which are found on the surfaces of certain cells in our body. Therefore, the researchers have created a chewing gum that contains a copy of ACE2 protein.
In test-tube experiments, the researchers took saliva samples from patients with COVID-19 and mixed these samples with a powdered form of the gum.
They found that virus particles attached themselves to the ACE2 "receptors", present in the chewing gum. According to the researchers from the University of Pennsylvania, 5mg of chewing gum could significantly reduce viral entry into cells while 50mg of the gum reduced viral entry by 95%.
Chewing gum to promote oral health is not a new idea. Studies have shown that chewing gums containing certain substances such as calcium and