June 7, 2020

Ion Gel ZCM-25® cGMP Manufactured - Antivirus Test on SARS-CoV-2

Ion Gel ZCM-25® Inactivates 99.9999% of SARS-CoV-2 in 10 Minutes: Breakthrough Antiviral Validation

As the global health community continues to combat viral threats like SARS-CoV-2, identifying safe, fast-acting topical agents is a top priority. In 2020, a certified laboratory analysis in Mexico City confirmed that Ion Gel ZCM-25® achieves an unprecedented 99.9999% reduction of SARS-CoV-2 within just 10 minutes of direct contact.

This result, independently validated under cGMP conditions, positions Ion Gel ZCM-25® as a potential non-alcohol-based virucidal solution for clinical use, especially in high-risk settings where control of viral load is essential. In this article, we dive into the test protocol, the underlying IBAL technology, and the broader implications of these findings in infection control and viral resilience.

SARS-CoV-2

What Makes SARS-CoV-2 So Challenging?

SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, is highly transmissible and can remain viable on surfaces and in aerosols for extended periods. The virus enters host cells via ACE2 receptors, often concentrated in mucosal tissue, the respiratory tract, and skin microenvironments exposed to high human contact.

Because of this, healthcare professionals and patients alike require not just alcohol-based hand sanitizers but also topical agents that are non-drying, long-lasting, and safe for repeated use, especially on vulnerable or inflamed skin.

Test Summary: Ion Gel ZCM-25® vs. SARS-CoV-2

In 2020, a formal SARS-CoV-2 virucidal assay was conducted at the Laboratorio de Especialidades Inmunológicas (LEI) in Mexico City. The study followed EPA 2000 guidelines, a recognized international standard for antiviral product evaluation.

Key Study Information:

  • Lab: LEI (Laboratorio de Especialidades Inmunológicas)
  • Conducted by: M. en C. Israel Velázquez Martínez
  • Pathogen: SARS-CoV-2 (tested via the Equine Viral Arteritis model)
  • Method: Direct contact assay
  • Exposure time: 10 minutes
  • Result: 99.9999% inactivation of viral particles

Mechanism of Action: IBAL Redox-Based Viral Inactivation

The exceptional activity of Ion Gel ZCM-25® against SARS-CoV-2 is due to its proprietary IBAL (Ion Biotechnology Aqueous Ligands) platform. This formulation includes biologically active ions:

  • Zinc (Zn²⁺): Antiviral properties via protein interaction and membrane destabilization
  • Copper (Cu²⁺): Capable of penetrating viral capsids and disrupting replication
  • Magnesium (Mg²⁺): Modulates pH and inflammatory response
  • Sulfur and hydrogen ions: Promote redox cycling and membrane collapse

These ions interact with viral envelopes and proteins, disrupting their ability to infect host cells. Unlike alcohol or bleach, this mechanism works without harsh solvents, making it suitable for repeated skin contact and mucosal applications.

Broader Implications of SARS-CoV-2 Inactivation

This breakthrough result isn't an isolated case. Ion Gel ZCM-25® also demonstrated efficacy in parallel studies:

  • MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus): 99.9999% kill rate in 30 seconds
  • Aspergillus brasiliensis: >99.95% kill rate in 30 seconds
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa and E. coli: 100% kill rate in 30–60 seconds

This breadth of performance confirms that ZCM-25® is not just an antiviral, but a multi-pathogen topical antimicrobial solution, ideal for clinical, emergency, and home use.

Clinical Applications for SARS-CoV-2 Control

Based on virucidal testing, Ion Gel ZCM-25® has promising applications for SARS-CoV-2 prevention and management, including:

  • Pre-procedural antisepsis in hospitals or outpatient clinics
  • Topical support in skin rashes associated with viral infections
  • Local disinfection of skin-contact PPE (e.g., face shields, mask seals)
  • Treatment of inflammation-prone areas (e.g., nasal vestibule, lips)

Its non-cytotoxic, non-irritating profile makes it compatible with skin that is already sensitized due to inflammation, eczema, or medical adhesives.

How Ion Gel ZCM-25® Differs from Conventional Disinfectants

Most products rely on:

  • Alcohol (ethanol or isopropyl): Effective but drying and irritating
  • Bleach-based formulas: Toxic on open skin or wounds
  • Quaternary ammonium compounds: May cause allergic dermatitis

Ion Gel ZCM-25® works without alcohol, preserving the skin barrier and maintaining hydration. It also allows redox modulation, which has the added benefit of supporting mitochondrial repair and immune signaling, aligning with salutogenic healing principles.

Stability and Safety Testing Supporting SARS-CoV-2 Use

Ion Gel ZCM-25® is backed by a full preclinical and clinical safety portfolio, which includes:

  • Phase I Human Safety Study: No irritation, sensitization, or systemic absorption
  • MTT Cytotoxicity Assay on HACAT cells: Non-toxic at 25% concentration
  • Rabbit Dermal Irritation Studies: Classified as non-irritant under GHS
  • Lot stability testing (6–12 months): Maintains virucidal performance and physical integrity

These results validate the product’s safe integration into long-term exposure protocols.

Redox Science

Recent studies suggest that SARS-CoV-2 modulates host redox states to enhance its replication. This makes redox-active agents like Ion Gel ZCM-25® strategically relevant.

By adjusting local oxidative stress through ionophoric delivery, the gel may contribute to:

  • Immune priming at viral entry sites
  • Neutralization of viral load before systemic dissemination
  • Reduction in viral persistence in chronic cases

Visual Summary

FeatureIon Gel ZCM-25® Result
Contact Time10 minutes
SARS-CoV-2 Reduction99.9999%
MechanismRedox ionophore (Zn, Cu, Mg)
Safe for Skin & MucosaYes
Additional Pathogen EfficacyMRSA, Aspergillus, E. coli

What’s Next?

As emerging viral strains challenge public health systems, the development of non-antibiotic topical antivirals is critical. The validated SARS-CoV-2 results for Ion Gel ZCM-25® represent not just an endpoint, but a new beginning in topical infection control.

Its integration into clinical protocols, emergency preparedness, and public hygiene frameworks could improve response strategies to current and future viral outbreaks.

Learn More

Full antiviral efficacy documentation:
https://zcm25.com/antiviral-activity-of-ion-gel-zcm-25-on-sars-cov-2-equine-viral-arteritis

Additional studies and clinical safety data:
https://zcm25.com/resources

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