The Curious Case of Earthworms and COVID-19

Abstract

Earthworms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and are used globally as an ecotoxicological standard test species. Studies of the earthworm Eisenia fetida have shown that exposure to nanomaterials activates a primary corona-response, which is covering the nanomaterial with native proteins, the same response as to biological invaders such as a virus. We outline that the earthworm Eisenia fetida is possibly immune to COVID-19 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2, SARS-CoV-2), and we describe the likely mechanisms of highly receptor-specific pore-forming proteins (PFPs). A non-toxic version of this protein is available, and we hypothesize that it is possible to use the earthworm’s PFPs based anti-viral mechanism as a therapeutic model for human SARS-CoV-2 and other corona viruses. The proteins can be used as a drug, for example, delivered with a nanoparticle in a similar way to the current COVID-19 vaccines. Obviously, careful consideration should be given to the potential risk of toxicity elicited by lysenin for in vivo usage. We aim to share this view to activate its exploration by the wider scientific community while promoting a potential therapeutic development.

On virus and nanomaterials – Lessons learned from the innate immune system – ACE activation in the invertebrate model Enchytraeus crypticus

“…Therefore, NMs are often handled as invaders by cells, like viruses, and can activate similar mechanisms ( Hayashi et al, 2012 ). Still recognising viruses replicate within the cell, which eventually leads to cell death ( Icard et al, 2020 ), it is important to transfer the knowledge, often shown to promote development in diverse areas and even inspire innovative therapeutic alternatives ( Scott-Fordsmand and Amorim, 2021 ).…”