Nanoparticles-Embedded Covalent Organic Framework Thin Films for Sequestrating Viral Pathogens

Abstract

Developing non-toxic, efficient, and environment-friendly microbe-resistant surfaces for viral infections is crucial, considering the lengthy and complex drug development process. Here, a highly efficient antiviral material is developed with Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles-embedded covalent organic framework (COF) thin film. TpAzo-Fe₃O₄, the nanoparticles-embedded thin film, being a cost-effective, non-toxic, highly stable, and readily synthesized material, offers a more sustainable approach than the existing antiviral materials. The precise embedding of the nanoparticles on COF thin films provides stability and prevents coagulation in the experimental media. The antiviral potential of TpAzo-Fe₃O₄ thin film is evaluated against four viral prototypes, Influenza Type A/PR/8/1934 (H1N1), A/turkey/Wisconsin/1/1966 (H9N2) and Human Corona Virus (HCoV-OC43 and HCoV-NL63). Superior antiviral activity is recorded by the TpAzo-Fe₃O₄ thin film exhibiting nearly 72% cell viability against H1N1, ≈99% cell viability against H9N2, ≈94% cell viability against HCoV-OC43, and ≈ 98% against HCoV-NL63 virus. The importance of the COF thin film is apparent from a control experiment with Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles-loaded polymer (TpmXDA-Fe₃O₄). Finally, an “antiviral filtration” is performed with TpAzo-Fe₃O₄ film, and residual viral activity (H1N1 virus) of the filtrate is assessed. The results revealed nearly ≈95% cell viability, suggesting complete sequestration/containment of the test virus during filtration.