High-Voltage Low-Frequency Electric Field Exposure as an Antiviral
Strategy: Effects on Viral Infectivity and Host Cell Viability
Abstract
This study explores the antiviral properties of high-voltage
low-frequency electric field exposure on the replication of human
viruses, including Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1), Human
Coronavirus OC43 (HCoV OC43), and Influenza A virus (A H1N1). Using the
Healectrics™ device (model S02), which operates by applying high-voltage
direct current (30-50 kV) with a polarity change frequency of
~0.2 Hz, we investigated the impact on viral infectivity
and host cell viability. Virus cultures were exposed to electric fields
during different stages: virion adsorption (0-1 hour), intracellular
replication (1-8 hours), and both stages. Viral infectivity was assessed
through titration, and cytotoxic effects were evaluated using MTT
assays. Electric field exposure significantly reduced viral
infectivity, particularly during the combined sorption and replication
stages, with up to a 90% decrease in viral activity. Among the viruses
tested, HCoV OC43 showed the least sensitivity, with a reduction in
viral activity by a factor of 5. Comparisons revealed statistically
significant reductions for influenza and herpes viruses, and a trend
towards significance for HCoV OC43. The electric field treatment did not
significantly affect the viability of Vero and MDCK cells, indicating
the method’s safety. Our findings suggest that high-voltage
low-frequency electric fields can effectively reduce viral infectivity
and may serve as a potential therapeutic and preventive measure against
a wide range of membrane-bound viruses, including SARS-CoV-2.