Methods and Current Trends in Determination of Neuraminidase Activity and Evaluation of Neuraminidase Inhibitors

Abstract

This review focuses on the methods and current trends in determination of neuraminidases (NAs) activity and evaluation of neuraminidase inhibitors (NAIs) by means of biochemical assays. These methods can be used, in principle, for any type of sialidase, with regard to substrate specificity and optimal conditions for enzymatic reaction. Considering the range of organisms producing sialidases, this review omits cell-based assays (plaque assays and study of cytopathic effect) and animal model studies, which are reviewed elsewhere concerning specific organisms. The present review also provides the brief introductory survey of role of sialic acids and neuraminidases, but main focus is on the methods of determining neuraminidase activity and evaluating neuraminidase inhibitors. The future prospect of improvement in analytical techniques regarding the enzymatic activity of sialidases is briefly outlined.

Keywords:

• Bioanalytical
• enzyme-based assay
• lectin
• neuraminidase
• sialic acid

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the the Slovak Research and Development Agency grants APVV-14-0294, APVV-14-0393, APVV-14-0753, APVV-15-0111, APVV-16-0088, APVV-17-0239 and by Slovak Grant Agency for Science grant VEGA 2/0137/18. This publication is the result of the project implementation: Centre for materials, layers and systems for applications and chemical processes under extreme conditions—Stage II, ITMS No.: 26240120021 supported by the Research & Development Operational Programme funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).