Brasilia, May 14 (SANA) Researchers in Brazil say high-frequency sound waves may help weaken viruses such as coronavirus and influenza in laboratory conditions without damaging human cells, according to a recent scientific study.
The study, reported by ScienceAlert on Wednesday, was conducted by researchers at the University of São Paulo using a technique known as acoustic resonance.
The method uses sound waves to generate microscopic vibrations within the outer structure of viruses, gradually weakening and disrupting their protective envelope and reducing their ability to infect cells, researchers said.
The findings, published in the journal Scientific Reports, involved experiments on SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, and the H1N1 influenza virus.
According to the researchers, both viruses lost the ability to infect cells after exposure to the sound waves.
The team cautioned, however, that the technology remains at an experimental stage and requires further studies to evaluate its safety and potential medical applications.
Researchers said the findings could contribute to the future development of new antiviral approaches.
N.J/ABD