5,6-dihydroxyflavone exerts anti-betacoronavirus activity by blocking viral entry to host cells.

ABSTRACT: Baicalin, a bioactive flavone found in Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi has anti-SARS-CoV-2 infection by targeting viral 3C-like protease (3CLpro). However, little is known about the antiviral activity of its 7-deoxy analogue, 5,6-dihydroxyflavone (5,6-DHF), especially against betacoronaviruses (beta-CoVs). We found that 5,6-DHF exhibited more potent anti-SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant EG.5.1.1 activity than baicalein by microneutralization test (MNT) and plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT). 5,6-Dihydroxyl (catechol) groups at A ring of 5,6-DHF is essential for its suppression on SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant EG.5.1.1 infection because blocking them with methyl or methylene groups obsolesce the activity. 3CLpro inhibition assay showed that the antiviral activity of 5,6-DHF is distinctive wi

SUBMITTER: Cao Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12056778 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature