The 1-MNA molecule patented by Polish scientists may be helpful in the treatment of coronavirus infections. It is a newly discovered effect of this compound, which protects the cardiovascular system, fights inflammation and supports the fight against infections. The molecule received a positive opinion from the European Food Safety Commission, thanks to which it could hit the market.
This molecule is produced by the human body by processing vitamin B3. Unfortunately, our body’s ability to metabolize it decreases with age.
The natural source of 1-MNA are wakame algae and green tea leaves. It is suspected that, among other things, these dietary components are responsible for the longevity of the inhabitants of the Japanese island of Okinawa, which boasts the largest number of centenarians in the world.
1-MNA proven in research
The molecule was patented by scientists from the Lodz University of Technology and the Medical University of Lodz, on whose initiative it was created PHARMENA, a manufacturing company pharmaceuticals and cosmetics with the effectiveness confirmed by clinical trials.
The activity and safety of 1-MNA have been proven by numerous studies, incl. clinical trials on patients. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) also performed an in-depth assessment. Scientific analysis has shown that it is safe to use.
1-MNA in the fight against infections
Scientists have observed that in some viral diseases, 1-MNA levels drop. When examining the urine of infants infected with RSV, a reduction in the level of 1-MNA was found, which could reduce the body’s ability to fight inflammation.
In a screening study conducted earlier this year, scientists worked on the correlation between COVID-19 and previously known fatal outbreaks of coronavirus (COV), SARS and MERS COV, and selected a group of FDA-approved antiviral substances that may be recommended for treatment of COVID-19 symptoms.
The selected list of 20 preparations includes, among others vitamin B3, which transforms into the 1-MNA molecule in our body. In addition, the latest scientific research published by Chinese and Italian scientists in Cell Death & Differentiation in March this year on the immune response in COVID-19 infection also recommends the administration of vitamin B3 in SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus infection.
1-MNA in the protection of the cardiovascular system
Earlier studies on the 1-MNA molecule showed that it determines the proper functioning of the mucous membranes, which are the body’s natural protective barrier. Bacteria and viruses try to penetrate our body through the mucous membranes, and their appearance there activates the immune system.
1-MNA also protects against diseases of the blood vessels, preventing heart attacks and strokes. This molecule regulates the work of the endothelium that lines the inner walls of blood vessels. The endothelium influences the tension of the vascular walls and regulates their inflammatory activity.
Disruption of its functioning leads to the development of diseases of the cardiovascular system: atherosclerosis, arterial hypertension, chronic heart failure, dyslipidemia. They are also associated with diabetes, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver and kidneys. 1-MNA also stimulates the production of prostacyclin, which protects the cardiovascular system against the formation of blood clots causing heart attacks and strokes. Factors that disrupt the work of endothelial cells and the formation of prostacyclin are, among others smoking, improper diet, stress or lack of physical activity.