Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Dec 07, 2025 5 hours, 30 minutes ago
Medical News: Researchers from Changwon National University and Amicogen Inc., South Korea, have discovered a powerful new antiviral combination that could offer natural protection against dangerous respiratory infections like influenza A (H1N1) and human parainfluenza virus type 3 (HPIV3). Their study focused on the effects of deacetylated chitosan, a compound derived from shrimp and crab shells, when combined with grapefruit seed extract (GSE). This
Medical News report highlights the discovery that this combination shows potent antiviral activity in laboratory tests without harming healthy cells.
Thailand Medical News additionally recommends this protocol for children without any underlying medical conditions and who are not any medications but need protection from the current H3N2 flu strains wreaking havoc in many geolocations. However always consult a medical doctor before starting any supplements and also do due diligence on the source, quality and brand of the supplements. (Note that Grapefruit extract can interact with certain medications/drugs).
Chitosan and grapefruit seed extract show powerful antiviral effects against influenza and
parainfluenza viruses in lab tests
What Is Chitosan and Why It Matters
Chitosan is a natural, biodegradable substance obtained by processing chitin from seafood shells. The effectiveness of chitosan depends heavily on its “deacetylation” level—a chemical process that modifies its structure. In this study, scientists tested two variations: 60% and 85% deacetylated chitosan. They wanted to see which type could better block viruses, particularly when paired with antioxidant-rich grapefruit seed extract, which is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Lab Tests Show Strong Antiviral Action
Using human lung cells (A549) and dog kidney cells (MDCK), the researchers exposed the cells to the H1N1 flu virus and HPIV3. They then treated them with different combinations of chitosan and GSE. The results were striking. Chitosan with 85% deacetylation significantly reduced viral plaque formation—visible signs of virus damage to cells—much more than the 60% version. When GSE was added to the 85% chitosan, the antiviral effects became even stronger, especially against H1N1.
Western blot and gene analysis confirmed that this potent combination reduced viral protein levels and suppressed virus-related gene expression. It also helped prevent virus-triggered mitochondrial damage and cellular stress pathways like p38 MAPK activation, which are linked to severe inflammation and cell death.
No Harm to Healthy Cells
Importantly, none of the tested combinations—including high concentrations of chitosan and GSE—caused toxic effects on healthy cells. This supports the safety of these natural compounds as potential therapies or preventatives.
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Why This Matters Now
As the world continues to battle various respiratory viruses, including emerging influenza strains and ongoing threats from parainfluenza infections, natural therapies like this could serve as vital supplements to existing antiviral drugs or vaccines. Not only is chitosan safe and widely available, but when paired with plant-based GSE, it forms a cost-effective and eco-friendly antiviral agent.
What the Research Means Going Forward
These findings suggest a new path for natural antiviral treatments. The degree of chitosan deacetylation plays a critical role in its effectiveness, and combining it with GSE enhances its virus-fighting abilities. However, while results are promising in lab settings, more in-depth animal and human studies are needed before clinical applications.
Still, the potential is clear: a natural, safe, and potent antiviral solution could soon be within reach.
The study findings were published in the peer reviewed journal: Applied Sciences
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/13/17/9938
For the latest on preventing or treating flu infections, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News.
Read Also:
https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/influenza-or-flu
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