Researchers from the Institute of Science Tokyo and Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University said that they have developed a peptide that can bind to the spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2 to prevent COVID-19 infections.

The peptide, which is a short chain of amino acids, has shown effectiveness in experiments involving various coronavirus strains attempting to infect human cell lines and hamsters.

Researchers hope to conduct a physician-led clinical trial for possible preventive and therapeutic treatment.

“The peptide comprises 39 natural amino acids, and it is inexpensive and easily synthesized,” Institute of Science Tokyo Distinguished Professor Yoshinori Fujiyoshi said. “It only binds to spike proteins, so it can be considered to have no side effects.”

The peptide can be stored in powder form at room temperature and be administered to patients through inhalation by dissolving it in physiological saline and converting it into a fine spray using a nebulizer.

The research is slated to be published in the online edition of the U.S. journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.