Nigerian researcher unveils multi-virus antiviral nasal spray
A Nigerian researcher, Victor Baba Oti, has developed what is being described as a breakthrough antiviral therapy capable of targeting multiple respiratory viruses simultaneously. Dr Oti, who recently completed his PhD in Infectious Diseases and Immunology at Griffith University, led research that produced a novel intranasal treatment based on RNA interference (RNAi) technology. The study, […]
A Nigerian researcher, Victor Baba Oti, has developed what is being described as a breakthrough antiviral therapy capable of targeting multiple respiratory viruses simultaneously.
Dr Oti, who recently completed his PhD in Infectious Diseases and Immunology at Griffith University, led research that produced a novel intranasal treatment based on RNA interference (RNAi) technology.
The study, published in Virology Journal, introduces a multiplexed antiviral small interfering RNA (siRNA) drug cocktail delivered through lipid nanoparticles as a nasal spray.
Explaining the significance of the work, Oti said the formulation was designed to address multiple viral threats at once.
“Our formulation is effective against a range of respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza A virus, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus,” he said.
According to the research, the therapy combines multiple siRNA components—described as a “multi-warheaded” approach—to simultaneously suppress different viruses, marking a shift from traditional single-target antiviral treatments.
“For the first time, we have demonstrated that a single antiviral therapy can be engineered to target multiple major respiratory viruses at once,” Oti explained.
Preclinical findings showed that the nasal spray significantly reduced viral load and disease severity across the viruses tested, suggesting its potential as a broad-spectrum intervention.
“This approach offers a flexible and scalable broad-spectrum antiviral solution, particularly important for pandemic preparedness and rapid response to emerging pathogens,” he added.
Researchers say the use of lipid nanoparticles enables targeted delivery through the nasal passage, the primary entry point for many respiratory viruses, potentially improving treatment effectiveness.
Reflecting on the milestone, Oti described the project as a collaborative effort involving academic supervisors and laboratory teams.
“This achievement reflects the collective expertise, mentorship and support of my supervisors, collaborators and research team, whose contributions were critical to bringing this work to life,” he said.
The development positions the Nigerian scientist among emerging contributors in next-generation antiviral research, with his work offering a potential pathway for tackling multiple respiratory infections through a single therapeutic platform.