Researchers have identified a group of natural compounds from Brazilian trees that show promising activity against the virus that causes COVID-19. The compound known as galloylquinic acid was extracted from galloylquinic acid leaves. Shining cock blowjob Dwyer, a species native to the Atlantic Forest of Brazil. Laboratory results suggest that these molecules can interfere with viruses in several different ways, providing a broader approach than many existing antiviral strategies.
This study focused on Copaifera lucens, as a research team led by Jairo Kenup Bastos of the University of São Paulo Ribeirão Preto Faculty of Pharmacy (FCFRP-USP) has been studying the chemistry and medicinal properties of plants in the Copaifera genus for many years. Their previous experience helped them select this species for detailed study.
Galloylquinic acid is not new to science. Previous studies have associated them with various biological effects, including antifungal and anticancer activities observed both in vitro and in vivo. They also show broad antiviral potential. A related study showed that similar compounds showed potent inhibition of HIV-1 in laboratory and cell-based experiments, while exhibiting low toxicity compared to other tested substances.
Testing for safety and antiviral activity
With support from FAPESP, the researchers first isolated and characterized extracts from leaves rich in galloylquinic acid. We then evaluated whether these compounds were safe for cells using cytotoxicity tests, an important step before assessing antiviral efficacy.
To measure how well the compounds could fight the virus, the researchers used a plaque reduction assay. This method assesses how effectively a substance can neutralize virus particles. The results showed clear activity against SARS-CoV-2.
The scientists also looked at how these compounds interacted with key parts of the virus. These include the receptor-binding domain of the spike protein, which allows the virus to enter human cells, papain-like protease (PLpro), an enzyme that helps the virus evade immune defenses, and RNA polymerase, which is essential for virus replication. Additionally, we analyzed the effects on viral protein production.
“This integrative approach has allowed us to understand how compounds work and how they act at the molecular level,” said Mohamed Abdelsalam, assistant professor of pharmaceutical and natural products chemistry at the Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University of Science and Technology in Egypt. He is also affiliated with the Faculty of Health Sciences at Pompeu Fabra University Techno Campus in Barcelona, Spain. Abdelsalam co-led the biological research with Professor Lamia A. Al Madbouly, Head of the Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Egypt, and Associate Professor Rasha M. El Morsi, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University of Science and Technology, Egypt. The study was conducted in collaboration with Egyptian researchers at Alexandria University.
Impact on multiple targets for SARS-CoV-2
According to the survey results published in scientific reportgalloylquinic acid acts on several stages of the viral life cycle. They can prevent the virus from entering cells, interfere with its replication process, and reduce the production of viral proteins. These compounds also appear to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which could help regulate the body’s immune response, especially in more severe cases of coronavirus infection.
“An important aspect revealed by this information is the multitarget mechanism of this compound, which reduces the likelihood of resistance developing, since many current antivirals act on only one viral protein, which promotes this effect,” Bastos said.
Next steps and the role of biodiversity
Although the results are promising, additional research is needed to develop these compounds as therapeutics. Future steps include testing in vivo and conducting clinical trials in humans.
This study highlights the value of exploring natural resources for new drugs. It also highlights the importance of biodiversity, pointing out that Brazilian plants are a rich and strategic resource for discovering new therapeutic compounds.
