PREreview of Electromagnetic waves destabilize the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein and reduce SARS-CoV-2 Virus-Like Particle (SC2-VLP) infectivity

This study represents an important and timely contribution to virology and biomedical engineering. By investigating how targeted electromagnetic wave exposure can disrupt SARS-CoV-2 virus-like particles, the authors take a significant step toward developing new, non-invasive methods for viral inactivation.

The use of a coplanar waveguide (CPW) system to determine virus absorption spectra—and to then experimentally reduce infectivity—demonstrates both technical precision and creativity. The focus on the 2.5–3.5 GHz frequency range and its effect on the Spike protein’s receptor binding domain (RBD) provides new insights into virus vulnerability to electric fields, offering a compelling foundation for future antiviral strategies.

This is more than a technical report. It is a proof-of-concept that opens the door to alternative disinfection methods that could be used in environments ranging from hospitals to public transport systems. The fact that these effects are nonthermal enhances the appeal and safety of potential applications.

Suggestions for Improvement and Further Exploration

1. Clarify Thermal vs. Nonthermal Mechanism The claim that inactivation occurs through nonthermal means is important. Although temperature was not observed to rise during the experiments, including precise thermal data (plots, sensors, or calibration references) would make this conclusion stronger and more defensible.

2. Broaden the Scope of Variants Tested The study uses the ancestral Wuhan-1 Spike protein. Including or proposing plans to test additional variants (e.g., Delta, Omicron) would significantly increase the relevance and applicability of the findings.

3. Explore Longer-Term Structural Impacts It would be valuable to know whether the structural deformation of the Spike protein is reversible or permanent. Including results from additional assays—such as structural integrity over time, or binding kinetics post-exposure—could deepen understanding.

4. Incorporate Visualization of Structural Damage Electron microscopy or other imaging tools to visualize physical changes in SC2-VLPs would powerfully complement the ELISA and infectivity results, providing direct visual confirmation of damage or morphological change.

5. Discuss Practical Deployment While the study serves as a laboratory-based proof-of-concept, a brief discussion about real-world applications—such as portable sanitization systems, safety protocols, or clinical implications—would elevate its impact.

6. Expand on Broader Viral Relevance The paper briefly mentions the possibility of using this method on other enveloped viruses (e.g., HIV, HCV, influenza). Expanding on this with preliminary data or literature comparisons could support broader adoption of the method.

Conclusion

This article is a model of scientific curiosity applied to public health challenges. It blends physics, virology, and engineering in a practical and elegant way. The experimental results are compelling, and the method is both innovative and grounded in sound scientific reasoning.

The work deserves recognition not only for its originality but also for its potential to impact future antiviral technologies. With some refinements and expansions, it could serve as a foundation for new strategies in viral control—especially where traditional chemical or thermal disinfection methods are limited.

The authors are encouraged to continue developing this line of research. Their findings could be part of a new class of electromagnetic-based interventions that reshape how we approach pandemic preparedness and viral containment in the years ahead.

Competing interests

The author declares that they have no competing interests.