The role of electric charge in SARS-CoV-2 and other viral infections

Abstract

This study analyzed the role of electric charge in human viral infections. Examples of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), dengue, Ebola, influenza A, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are presented. Charge distribution in SARS-CoV-2 and electrostatic interactions of SARS-CoV-2 with its receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), were evaluated, and the mean time required for respired SARS-CoV-2 virus attachment was evaluated. The virus–cell attachment modality of all of the above viruses was calculated. The impact of electric charge on other viral-related processes, such as replication of virion material, release, and immune response, was also discussed. Special charge conditions in virus treatments were also indicated.