A research article about the recent hot topic: CoronaVirus, was published in the journal of microorganisms under the title “In silico Investigation on the Inhibiting Role of Nicotine/Caffeine by Blocking the S Protein of SARS-CoV-2 Versus ACE2 Receptor” by international research collaboration including Rasoul Moradi, Researcher at Khazar University, Department of Chemical Engineering.

Given the persistent threat and adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the study of the therapeutic effects of bioactive compounds is critical for research institutes and researchers. In this regard, Khazar University researchers have joined an international study examining the inhibitory effects of caffeine and nicotine in the combat against SARS-CoronaVirus2. The scientific approach in this study is based on hindering the mechanism of coronavirus entry into cells by blocking the receptors on the surface of the cells. Spike protein (S protein), which rests on the outer shell of the coronavirus, mediates the entry of the virus by attaching to the cell's angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2). In this way, we can prevent further infection by stopping the coronavirus from entering the cells by finding the appropriate bioactive compounds that bind to these sites. According to the results, it can be concluded that caffeine and nicotine at a certain concentration have a very strong effect on the binding of the target area (ACE2) against the binding of coronavirus S protein.

The article can be read at this link:

https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2607/8/10/1600