MHV-1 in vivo viral load reduction via antibody-conjugated photodynamic inactivation

Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) has been widely applied to localized infections, both internal and external. However, there is a notable knowledge gap when it comes to applying PDI to an entire organ system or even systemically throughout an organism. To study these treatment methods, an in vivo murine model of MHV-1 is planned. As a respiratory coronavirus, the model provides a suitable system for study, in addition to potential determination of systemic results. Specifically applied, MHV-1 has many key characteristics, such as symptoms and viral protein structures, that are in common or similar to other coronaviruses. Thus, this theorized model simultaneously addresses a key knowledge gap and provides useful insights into potential treatments for COVID-19 and similar disease-causing viruses. The risk of emergent viral threats and the necessity for rapidly developed, adaptable, affordable treatment methods are both now vividly evident.