LETTER TO EDITOR MARINE RESOURCES: POTENTIAL OF POLYCHAETE APPLICATION IN COMBATING COVID-19 INFECTION

Abstract

An antiviral vaccine for COVID-19 is not yet available. Research on polychaete has revealed the ability of its purified haemoglobin in assisting oxygenation to vital organs. Polychaete's blood and tissue extracts were used as an oxygen-carrier and as a reducing agent in the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs), respectively. Polychaete-based oxygen carrier can be used in organ preservation and as potential treatment for near-death COVID-19 patients. Ag-NPs from polychaete, which are known for possessing excellent antimicrobial properties, may serve as a raw material for various products, including disinfectant, coating materials for paint, handrail, personal care and healthcare products, such as personal protective equipment (PPE). The COVID-19 pandemic may be a catalyst to unveil hidden potentials of polychaete, particularly its therapeutic properties in medicine.