Urtica dioica agglutinin (UDA) as a potential candidate for inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variants: In silico prediction and experimental validation.

Researchers studied the effectiveness of a plant-derived protein called Urtica dioica agglutinin (UDA) in blocking the Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) of the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2. The RBD has many mutations, which may make it more resistant to antibodies from previous infections or vaccinations. Since UDA has shown antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, it might be a useful drug for treating this highly transmissible variant.

Sabzian-Molaei F et al (2023).

Phytomedicine.

DOI:

10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154648

PubMed:

36681052

Identification of Natural Products Inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 by Targeting Viral Proteases: A Combined in Silico and in Vitro Approach.

Researchers used computer simulations and lab tests to identify natural products that can fight against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. They screened over 140,000 natural substances, identified 38 potential hits, and tested them in lab experiments. Five of those compounds were effective at inhibiting the virus in vitro, and three of them, known as mulberry Diels-Alder-type adducts, showed potent anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity in cells. These compounds bind to the virus in a butterfly-shaped way, as confirmed through nuclear magnetic resonance experiments.

Wasilewicz A et al (2023).

J Nat Prod.

DOI:

10.1021/acs.jnatprod.2c00843

PubMed:

36651644

Potential of plant extracts in targeting SARS-CoV-2 main protease: an in vitro and in silico study.

Researchers at the Universidade Estadual de Maringá have discovered that an extract of [plant name], obtained by ultrasound, has a potent antiviral effect against SARS-CoV-2. In laboratory tests, the extract showed a M inhibition capacity greater than 90%, and an inhibition of 99.6% was observed in an infection model assay. Molecular docking simulations suggested that Tellimagrandin II, a component of the extract, is likely the most effective compound in inhibiting the viral enzyme. This discovery shows promise for natural compounds in the treatment of COVID-19.

de Araujo IG et al (2023).

J Biomol Struct Dyn.

DOI:

10.1080/07391102.2023.2166589

PubMed:

36651196

[Effect of Matricaria chamomilla on stressed relatives of COVID-19 patients in andean communities of Peru].

Saldaña-Chafloque CF et al (2022).

Aten Primaria.

DOI:

10.1016/j.aprim.2022.102551

PubMed:

36641990

The use of the nutritional supplements during the covid-19 outbreak in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study.

This study investigated supplement use in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic and found that 87% of participants reported using at least one type of supplement. Vitamin C and D were the most commonly used, and females were more likely to use supplements than males. These findings show a high prevalence of supplement use during the pandemic and highlight the importance of understanding the impact of supplement usage on COVID-19 outcomes.

Hafiz NM et al (2023).

Complement Ther Med.

DOI:

10.1016/j.ctim.2023.102917

PubMed:

36632904

Anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities of flavone C-glycosides of Lophatherum gracile for COVID-19.

This study identified the bioactive components of a medicinal plant, (). Flavone-glycosides were found to be responsible for anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects. A method was developed to extract these compounds, which were shown to restrict respiratory bursts and inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection. These findings suggest that could potentially be used as a supplement to treat COVID-19 associated with neutrophils.

Chen YL et al (2023).

J Funct Foods.

DOI:

10.1016/j.jff.2023.105407

PubMed:

36627926

In Silico Analysis Reveals the Inhibitory Potential of Madecassic Acid against Entry Factors of SARS-CoV-2.

Madecassic acid (MDCA) is a natural compound with anti-inflammatory and other medicinal properties. A study investigated its potential as a drug against COVID-19. Computer simulations showed that MDCA could bind to several key proteins involved in the virus' infection process, including the spike protein and its receptors, with high affinity. MDCA also formed strong interactions with these proteins. This suggests that MDCA could be a promising multi-target drug to combat SARS-CoV-2, especially against mutant strains.

Ganguly A et al (2023).

ACS Appl Bio Mater.

DOI:

10.1021/acsabm.2c00916

PubMed:

36608326

Herbal medicines exhibit a high affinity for ACE2 in treating COVID-19.

Many herbal medicines, including Lianhua Qingwen capsules and Houttuynia cordata, have shown promise in treating COVID-19 by targeting the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor which allows the virus to enter host cells. This study summarizes a range of herbal formulas, single herbs, and active ingredients that exhibit a high affinity for ACE2 and warrant further investigation. Such research could lead to the discovery of new drugs to fight COVID-19.

Zhang B and Qi F (2023).

Biosci Trends.

DOI:

10.5582/bst.2022.01534

PubMed:

36596560