• Published on: Nov 13, 2020
  • 1 minute read
  • By: Dr Rajan ( Medical Second Opinion Cell)

Using The Cellular Handshake Against The Virus

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Using the cellular handshake against the virus

In early November an interesting study was published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, describing the treatment of a severe COVID-19 patient with human recombinant soluble angiotensin-converting enzyme-2. By using the treatment, it was possible to see the disappearance of the virus swiftly from the patient's serum, nose, and lungs, as well as a reduction in the patients’ inflammatory markers. How was this achieved? And why is this so intriguing.

When we look at treating viruses, there are several strategies at work. You can prevent its spread by the use of social distancing or masks, you can use medications that prevent its replication (such as Tamiflu). Or you can stop the virus from entering the cells, the first step in viral replication.

SARS-CoV-2 appears to enter human cells through the ACE2 receptor. ACE2 is a protein in the cell membrane found across the human body, especially the lungs, heart, kidney and small intestine. It function is related to the Renin-Angiotensin System, a mechanism by which the kidneys control your blood pressure.

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme converts angiotensin 1 to angiotensin 2, a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict. ACE 2 instead converts it to a protein that causes dilation of blood vessels. This likely protects these critical organs and ensure they receive sufficient blood to perform their tasks. ACE2 is being investigated as a possible target for blood pressure medications.

The study used a genetically modified soluble form of ACE2 that mimics the protein found on human cell membranes. By increasing its availability in the blood, the SARS-CoV-2 virus binds to this protein, resulting in its inactivation, rather than entering lung cells and causing lung injury. Lab studies have shown that it can reduce viral growth by as much as 1000 to 5000 times, and phase 1 studies show it to be safe to use in people.

The actual described case was in a 45-year-old woman, hospitalized with COVID, suffering from severe shortness of breath, cough and fatigue. She was first treated with hydroxychloroquine and anticoagulants, but this proved ineffective, and the virus was causing increasing damage to her lungs. Nine days after her symptoms started, she received the ACE2 treatment for a week, with no side effects. This resulted in an increase in ACE2 activity (seen from her blood results), but also a marked decrease in multiple inflammatory markers associated with COVID-19, as well as a sharp decrease in COVID 19 numbers. Indeed, the viral load dropped from 32,000 per mL to just 270 per mL two days after treatment started. She was also able to produce antibodies against the virus, so this did not impair her from getting immunity.

It is certainly a very interesting case, though questions remain on how feasible it would be (as well as how expensive) to manufacture large quantities of this protein receptor for treatment use, as well as how it fairs in clinical trials.

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Neurobion

Neurobion Forte: Benefits for Nerve Health and Vitamin B Deficiency

Vitamin deficiencies are a common but often overlooked health issue. Among them, vitamin B deficiency is particularly significant because of its direct impact on nerve function, energy metabolism and overall neurological health. Neurobion Forte is a widely used vitamin B-complex supplement designed to address these deficiencies and support nerve health.

Understanding how Neurobion Forte works and when it is beneficial helps individuals make informed decisions about their nutritional and neurological wellbeing.

 

What Is Neurobion Forte?

Neurobion Forte is a combination supplement containing essential B vitamins, primarily:

  • vitamin B1 (thiamine)
     

  • vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
     

  • vitamin B12 (cobalamin)
     

These vitamins play a vital role in nerve signal transmission, energy production and maintenance of the nervous system.

 

Why Vitamin B Is Essential for Nerve Health

B vitamins are crucial for:

  • nerve impulse transmission
     

  • myelin sheath formation
     

  • energy metabolism in nerve cells
     

Deficiency can impair nerve function, leading to discomfort and neurological symptoms.

 

Common Causes of Vitamin B Deficiency

Vitamin B deficiency may occur due to:

  • inadequate dietary intake
     

  • poor absorption
     

  • chronic illnesses
     

  • long-term medication use
     

  • alcohol misuse
     

Vegetarians and elderly individuals are particularly at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.

 

Symptoms of Vitamin B Deficiency

Early symptoms may include:

  • fatigue
     

  • weakness
     

  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
     

  • poor concentration
     

If untreated, deficiency may progress to more serious neurological problems.

 

How Neurobion Forte Supports Nerve Health

Supports Nerve Repair

Vitamin B12 contributes to nerve regeneration and maintenance of nerve fibres.

 

Improves Nerve Signal Transmission

Vitamin B1 supports proper nerve impulse conduction.

 

Reduces Nerve Irritation

Vitamin B6 helps regulate neurotransmitter synthesis, reducing nerve-related discomfort.

 

Supports Energy Metabolism

B vitamins help convert food into energy, supporting overall nerve and muscle function.

 

Role of Neurobion Forte in Nerve Pain

Nerve pain caused by vitamin deficiency may present as:

  • burning sensation
     

  • tingling
     

  • numbness
     

  • shooting pain
     

In such cases, correcting the deficiency through supplementation may help relieve symptoms over time.

 

Conditions Where Neurobion Forte Is Commonly Used

Neurobion Forte may be prescribed or recommended in cases such as:

  • peripheral neuropathy
     

  • diabetic neuropathy (as supportive care)
     

  • nutritional deficiency-related nerve symptoms
     

  • general weakness associated with vitamin B deficiency
     

It is not a painkiller but supports underlying nutritional correction.

 

Importance of Medical Guidance

While vitamin supplements are widely available, inappropriate or excessive use may cause side effects.

Medical guidance ensures:

  • correct diagnosis
     

  • appropriate dosage
     

  • monitoring of response
     

Self-medication should be avoided, especially for long-term use.

 

Diet and Vitamin B Intake

Dietary sources of B vitamins include:

  • whole grains
     

  • legumes
     

  • dairy products
     

  • eggs
     

  • meat and fish
     

Balanced nutrition remains the foundation of vitamin sufficiency.

 

Who May Benefit Most from Neurobion Forte?

Individuals who may benefit include:

  • those with confirmed vitamin B deficiency
     

  • people with nerve-related symptoms
     

  • elderly individuals with poor nutrient absorption
     

  • individuals with restricted diets
     

Supplementation should complement dietary improvement.

 

Possible Side Effects and Precautions

When taken as advised, Neurobion Forte is generally well tolerated.

However:

  • excessive vitamin B6 intake may cause nerve symptoms
     

  • allergic reactions are rare but possible
     

Always follow professional advice.

 

How Long Does It Take to See Benefits?

Improvement depends on:

  • severity of deficiency
     

  • duration of symptoms
     

  • individual health status
     

Some people notice symptom improvement within weeks, while others require longer support.

 

Neurobion Forte and Overall Wellbeing

Correcting vitamin B deficiency supports:

  • nerve health
     

  • energy levels
     

  • cognitive function
     

  • overall vitality
     

Supplementation is most effective when combined with healthy lifestyle habits.

Conclusion

Neurobion Forte plays an important role in managing vitamin B deficiency and supporting nerve health. By supplying essential B vitamins, it helps restore nerve function, reduce deficiency-related symptoms and improve overall neurological wellbeing. While it can be highly beneficial when deficiency is present, its use should always be guided by medical advice to ensure safety and effectiveness. Balanced nutrition, early diagnosis and appropriate supplementation together form the foundation of healthy nerve function.

 

References

  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Micronutrients and Neurological Health

  •  Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Nutrient Deficiency Guidelines

  • National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) – Vitamin B and Nerve Function Reports

  • Lancet Neurology – Vitamin Deficiency and Neuropathy Studies

  • Indian Journal of Clinical Nutrition – Vitamin B Supplementation Researc

  •  Statista – Dietary Supplement Usage Trends

See all

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