Antiviral properties from plants of the Mediterranean flora

Abstract

Natural products are a successful source in drug discovery, playing a significant role in maintaining human health. We investigated the in vitro cytotoxicity and antiviral activity of extracts from 18 traditionally used Mediterranean plants. Noteworthy antiviral activity was found in the extract obtained from the branches of Daphne gnidium L. against human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (EC₅₀ = 0.08 μg/mL) and coxsackievirus B5 (EC₅₀ = 0.10 μg/mL). Other relevant activities were found against BVDV, YFV, Sb-1, RSV and HSV-1. Interestingly, extracts from Artemisia arborescens L. and Rubus ulmifolius Schott, as well as those from D. gnidium L., showed activities against two different viruses. This extensive antiviral screening allowed us to identify attractive activities, offering opportunities to develop lead compounds with a great pharmaceutical potential.

Keywords::

• Mediterranean plants
• Daphne gnidium L
• antiviral activity
• coxsackievirus B5

Acknowledgements

We would to take this opportunity to warmly thank the Commander of the ‘Stazione Forestale e di Vigilanza Ambientale’ of Senorbì, Superior Inspector Congiu and Deputy Commander Superior Inspector Gessa. We also thank Prof. Vadim Makarov, RAS Institute of Biochemistry of Moscow, who provided us pleconaril compound as reference drug control for in vitro assays.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Sardinia Regional Government [grant number RAS, L.R.7/2007, Promotion of Scientific Research and Technological Innovation in Sardinia] and [grant number P.O. F.S.E. 2007-13 POR Sardegna].