Hypericin Suppresses SARS-CoV-2 Replication and Synergizes with Antivirals via Dual Targeting of RdRp and 3CLpro.

ABSTRACT: The continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants underscores the need for novel antiviral candidates. Hypericin (HY), a compound derived from Hypericum perforatum, exhibited potent in vitro activity against SARS-CoV-2 in Vero E6 cells, with low cytotoxicity (CC₅₀ > 200 nM). HY showed no significant activity against Influenza A (H1N1) or dengue virus serotype 2, supporting its selective action. Antiviral effects were most evident when HY was administered post-infection, in a concentration-dependent manner, while cellular pretreatment or viral pre-incubation produced limited effects. Notably, HY also displayed virucidal activity, significantly reducing viral titers at 4 °C, 22 °C, and 37 °C. Combination treatments with remdesivir or nirmatrelvir enhanced antiviral efficacy b

SUBMITTER: Souza HDS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12114490 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature